The 2025 UCI Road World Championships, set to begin in Rwanda on Sunday, represent a monumental milestone for African cycling. For the first time since the event’s inception in 1921, the prestigious competition will be held on African soil, with Kigali’s BK Arena serving as the starting point for the women’s individual time trial. This historic moment underscores the growing influence of African cyclists on the global stage. Among the standout competitors is Kim Le Court from Mauritius, who earlier this year became the first African to wear the leader’s yellow jersey in the Tour de France Femmes. Le Court expressed her excitement, stating that competing in Africa’s inaugural World Championships is ‘really special’ and a testament to the potential of riders from smaller nations. The event will feature 13 races across time trials and road races, with gender parity and three age categories: junior, Under-23, and elite. Rwanda’s selection as host in 2021 prompted African cycling federations to intensify their efforts in nurturing young talent, with around 150 professional cyclists from the continent now competing at the highest levels. However, Rwanda’s challenging terrain, characterized by its ‘land of a thousand hills,’ may pose difficulties for some riders, including Eritrea’s Biniam Girmay, Africa’s top male cyclist. Despite his sprinting prowess, Girmay acknowledges the grueling nature of the men’s road race, which includes over 5,500 meters of climbing. Nevertheless, he remains committed to supporting his national team and inspiring the next generation of African cyclists. The event is expected to draw massive crowds, with Rwanda’s passion for cycling evident in the annual Tour du Rwanda, which attracts over one million spectators. Despite security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict in neighboring DR Congo, the UCI confirmed the event would proceed as planned. UCI President David Lappartient emphasized the importance of uniting the global cycling community in Africa, while Kimberly Coats of Team Africa Rising highlighted the potential for long-term investment in the sport. For young African riders, the championships offer a platform to showcase their talent and attract development opportunities. Ethiopia’s Tsige Kahsay Kiros, an 18-year-old junior competitor, is among those making waves after her impressive performance at the Tour de l’Avenir. As the event unfolds, it promises to leave a lasting legacy, firmly placing African cycling on the global map.