UCI addresses 2025 Rwanda world champs cancellation rumours
Several reports said the race runs a risk of being moved to Switzerland
After conflicts between Rwanda and Congo escalated this week, several outlets reported that the UCI would be switching the 2025 road world championships to Switzerland.
Last week, the conflict worsened when Congolese rebels, supported by the Rwandan government, broke through. Rwanda is set to host the first road world championships at the end of September, but with the latest news, that could now be in jeopardy.
Several federations have already said they would be sending reduced squads due to the cost and logistics of flying there and acclimating to altitude. But the latest news about a possible war in the region has raised concerns about the viability and safety of the event for everyone involved.
Tensions in border region between Congo and Rwanda
According to a La Dernière Heure report, the tensions in the border region between Congo and Rwanda are causing major concerns for the UCI. The cycling federation is even said to be quietly working on a possible backup plan if things continue to escalate. If it turns out to be too dangerous in Rwanda at the end of September, the federation could move the event to another location.
On Friday, the UCI finally sent out a statement: “The UCI, in close collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the 2025 UCI road world championships, is closely monitoring developments in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). And their potential impact on the organization of the races scheduled for next September in Kigali, Rwanda,” it read.
Will monitor situation
The UCI said that the ongoing conflict is confined to the DRC, and Rwanda remains entirely safe for tourism and business. So as of now, it wouldn’t affect the world championships.
“We hope for a swift and peaceful resolution of the situation. The UCI wishes to emphasize that sport, and cycling in particular, are powerful ambassadors for peace, friendship, and solidarity,” the statement continued. “Moreover, following the spread of rumors on this subject, the UCI clarifies that no relocation of the road worlds from Rwanda to Switzerland or any other location is planned at this time.”
Meanwhile, some cyclists are getting prepared for the trip, which includes several vaccines. To travel to Rwanda, you need to be vaccinated against yellow fever, hepatitis A, malaria, diphtheria, and tetanus. Remco Evenepoel, in a recent interview, said he had already received his shots early, and the side effects were mild.