State minister for sports Rwego Ngarambe has reflected on the success of Kigali’s hosting of the UCI Road World Championships. In an interview with The New Times, he referred to the event as “an opportunity to learn,” as he praised the enthusiasm from fans, the intensity of the races, and Rwanda’s historic role in setting a new benchmark as the first African host. “Kigali is going to be the platform where the best are going to show that they really deserve to be called the best or the greats in this cycling sports discipline,” he said, highlighting standout performances like Remco Evenepoel’s opening day win and the energy across the circuits. Ngarambe emphasized the overall satisfaction with how the UCI Road World Championships have been organised and received, both by international delegations and the local community. “We are very much happy with what we’ve achieved so far,” he said, noting the positive feedback from cyclists, team managers, and the wider delegations regarding accommodations, circuit conditions, and support services. He highlighted the atmosphere and passion from the crowds across Rwanda: “It’s not only Rwandans, everybody is cheering for the cyclists — the enthusiasm has been incredible.” Looking ahead to the final day of the championship, Ngarambe promised a memorable climax: “We can only imagine what it’s going to be like for the cyclists.”
