PICTORIAL: Kagame graces UCI 2025 closing ceremony as Pogačar retains world title

President Paul Kagame, together with Prince Albert II of Monaco and UCI President David Lappartient, attended the closing ceremony of the 2025 UCI Road World Championships which ended with Tadej Pogačar retaining the rainbow jersey in Kigali. The week-long global cycling event, hosted on African soil for the first time, saw Pogačar defend his title in spectacular fashion, conquering the grueling 267.5-kilometer course in six hours, 21 minutes, and 20 seconds. Sunday’s finale drew huge crowds of cycling enthusiasts who lined the official race routes. From the Kigali Convention Centre to Kabuga ka Nyarutama, through the Golf Course, Kacyiru, Kimihurura, and the iconic cobbled climb of Kimihurura, fans cheered relentlessly during the decisive laps. READ ALSO: UCI 2025 DAY-7 IN PICTURES: Thousands of fans flock to the streets, Spain and Canada are crowned Nyabugogo’s fan zone was another vibrant scene, showcasing Rwanda’s passion for cycling. In the afternoon, thousands packed the Norvège to Mont Kigali climb, turning it into a carnival of cycling spirit. The famous Mur de Kigali, often the race’s turning point, was equally filled with jubilant supporters, adding to the electrifying atmosphere. PICTORIAL: UCI 2025 DAY-6: Two Rwandans cross the finish line as British and Italian riders claim gold The 2025 edition concluded with Pogačar taking gold, Belgium’s Remco Evenepoel securing silver, and Britain’s Ben Healy clinching bronze. Out of 165 riders who started, only 31 managed to finish, with none of the six Rwandans completing the race. The New Times photographer Dan Gatsinzi and Olivier Mugwiza covered the week-long global competition.

In Pictures

PICTORIAL: Kagame graces UCI 2025 closing ceremony as Pogačar retains world title