Kigali Set for Historic First UCI Road Championships in Africa Amid Sportwashing Criticism

This year, Kigali, Rwanda, renowned as the 'land of a thousand hills,' will host the first-ever UCI World Road Championships in Africa. This event is pivotal for both the sport and the country, which boasts a vibrant cycling culture.

As riders like Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel prepare to compete on the challenging 265km course, the event has not been without controversy. The location choice, neighboring the Democratic Republic of Congo and associated with the M23 rebel group, has led to accusations of 'sportswashing' from several rights groups.

However, UCI head David Lappartient views this as a global expansion opportunity. "It's a bit of blue sky on a grey day," he stated, emphasizing sport's unifying power. Fans eagerly await to see if Pogacar can secure victory on this formidable course, designed to showcase his diverse skill set.