Pune, 16 January 2025: Former India cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been named the ambassador of the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour, India’s first international multi-stage professional road cycling race. The event will be held in Pune from January 19 to 23.
The five-day Continental Road Cycling Race for Men will span a challenging 437-kilometre route across the Deccan Plateau and the Sahyadri mountain range. The course includes sharp bends, steep climbs and varied terrain, making it one of the most demanding cycling races ever organised in the country.
The Pune Grand Tour has attracted 171 cyclists from 29 professional teams across 35 countries, marking a major milestone for Indian cycling on the global stage.
Speaking on the occasion, Dhoni said the race would help open new opportunities for cycling as a professional sport in India. He expressed confidence that the event would inspire young athletes and wished the Indian riders success as they compete in front of home supporters.
International competition will be led by Spain’s Burgos Burpellet BH, currently ranked 25th in the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) rankings. They will be followed by China’s Li Ning Star and Malaysia’s Terengganu Cycling Team, both among the top-ranked teams taking part.
India’s challenge will be spearheaded by experienced rider Naveen John. The host nation will field 12 riders, including a dedicated Development Team, along with four substitutes. This initiative aims to provide valuable international exposure to emerging Indian cyclists.
The Pune Grand Tour is being organised by the Pune district administration under the Cycling Federation of India, signalling a significant step forward in promoting professional cycling in the country.