Tour du Rwanda 2025 is taking shape and drivers are starting to get an idea of how far they could go. The race continues on Tuesday, February 25, with a challenging 112.3km Stage 2 from Kigali to Musanze. It starts at MIC building in Kigali at 11 am and is expected to finish around 2 pm, marking a crucial test for the riders after the grueling Rukomo-Kayonza opener. ALSO READ: Mulubrhan wins Stage 1 as Doubey grabs yellow jersey Stage 2's hilly profile will force riders to confront the race's true climbing challenges. Early attacks are expected as riders vie for points on the Kanyinya climb (7.7km) and the Rusiga hill (24.6 km). Following the Rusiga climb, a strategic battle for peloton positioning will likely unfold, with teams like Israel Premier Tech, Team Eritrea, Team Rwanda, Lotto Development, and TotalEnergies – along with the yellow jersey wearer Fabien Doubey – playing key roles. The intermediate sprint at Nyirangarama (45.2 km) will add another layer of competition. ALSO READ: MINISPORTS hands over 12 new bikes to Team Rwanda The race could intensify further with the Buranga climb (66.3 km) before the descent to Cyabingo. While past editions often saw riders settle after Buranga, this year's route includes the Kinigi mountain points (101.2 km), demanding a final surge before the Musanze finish. Currently, Didier Munyaneza (Team Rwanda) leads the mountains classification with 8 points, followed by Mike Uwiduhaye (Team Rwanda) with 6 points, and Daniyal Matthews (Team South Africa) with 4 points. Munyaneza, who had an impressive long breakaway in Stage 1, may find his energy reserves depleted. A peloton finish seems likely in Musanze. ALSO READ: Paracycling launched in Rwanda Also keep an eye on Henok Mulubrhan (Team Eritrea). The Tour du Rwanda 2023 winner completed the 157.8km ride from Rukomo to Kayonza in 3 hours, 57 minutes, and 52 seconds and he will be eager to maintain the pace. His Eritrean team, along with Yemane Dawit (Bike Aid), are expected to feature prominently in the mountains. Stage victory will likely go to a rider with a strong team to support them in the peloton or a rider capable of a powerful breakaway. Israel Premier Tech, Team Eritrea, Lotto Development, TotalEnergies, and UAE Emirates Gen-Z are expected to strategize for this type of finish. Team Rwanda and other Rwandan riders, including Samuel Niyonkuru (Team Amani), will also be aiming for a strong performance. Niyonkuru has indicated that his team will reassess their strategy after this crucial stage.
