On the challenging cobbled ascents and steep hills of Kigali, Slovenian cycling icon Tadej Pogačar delivered an exceptional performance, clinching the Men’s Elite Road Race title in 6 hours, 21 minutes, and 20 seconds, successfully defending the crown he earned in 2024 in Zürich, Switzerland.
The UCI Road World Championships 2025 in Rwanda marked a cycling celebration like no other, as flags from numerous countries fluttered proudly and enthusiastic spectators cheered loudly, witnessing history in the making with Africa hosting the event for the very first time in its 104-year legacy.
Covering a distance of 267.5 km and featuring a field of 165 cyclists, the race remained unpredictable and intensely competitive throughout most of the day. The race’s initial tempo was driven by Grenada’s Red Walters before teams from Switzerland, Germany, and Portugal attempted breakaways.
Mount Kigali’s cobblestones became both a fierce battleground and a place of jubilation, with fans singing, drumming, and waving flags as riders tackled the punishing climb under the blazing sun.
The decisive moments unfolded within the last 90 kilometers when Pogačar, Spain’s Juan Ayuso, and Mexico’s Del Toro Romero surged ahead. Pogačar and Romero not only shared the road but also exchanged brief moments of mutual respect as they pushed forward, though the Slovenian remained the overwhelming favorite.
Meanwhile, Italy and Australia led aggressive pursuit efforts, and Belgium, consistent throughout the week, remained determined to earn a podium finish.
Belgian star Remco Evenepoel, who won the earlier time trial, faced a nightmare when his bike encountered a mechanical issue. Frustrated, he slammed his handlebars, kicked stones, and desperately awaited a replacement. Despite regaining some time, this setback proved costly.
Driven by frustration, Evenepoel transformed his anger into determination, leading the second chase for over 30 kilometers. With 20 km remaining, he broke away from Healy and Skjelmose, aiming to secure a medal. He ultimately finished second, 1 minute 28 seconds behind Pogačar.
Farther back, Denmark’s Mikkel Frølich Honoré, France’s Pavel Sivakov, and Ireland’s Ben Healy contested fiercely for the bronze, as Italy’s Mattia Cattaneo and Australia’s Michael Matthews withdrew from the race.
Ireland’s Ben Healy claimed the bronze at 2 minutes 16 seconds back, his tenacious effort earning him widespread admiration.
With just three laps remaining, Switzerland’s Jan Christen launched a bold attack, while Britain’s Tom Pidcock remained competitive in the chase group. Yet Pogačar refused to be caught, steadily extending his advantage with unerring precision. At the medal ceremony, President Paul Kagame joined the celebrations, cementing Rwanda’s historic role
Eritrea’s Amanuel Ghebreigzabhier crossed the line in 36th place, the highest-ranked African rider in a race featuring numerous first-time competitors from across the continent, including Rwanda.
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