Pune, 16th January 2026: Pune is set to make history as it hosts the Pune Grand Tour 2026, India’s first-ever UCI 2.2 Continental Cycling Road Race, from January 19 to 23. The Cycling Federation of India (CFI) views the event as more than just a race, it’s a chance to elevate Indian cycling onto the global stage and a key step toward Olympic ambitions. At a press conference held on Friday ahead of the five-day race, excitement was palpable as officials, coaches, and riders shared their anticipation.
Speaking to The Bridge Chronicle, CFI Secretary General Maninder Pal described the Pune Grand Tour as a landmark moment for the sport. He said the event is shaping up to be one of the greatest stories in world cycling. “Pune can proudly announce its foray into the world of cycling. It couldn’t have been bigger, it couldn’t have been grander. This is history in the making,” he added.
Eyes Set on the Olympics
CFI Secretary General Maninder Pal emphasized that cycling is among the most medal-rich sports at the Olympics, highlighting the Pune Grand Tour 2026 as a major step toward India’s Olympic ambitions. He noted that the event, the first of its scale in India, not only provides young athletes with a platform to showcase their talent but also helps promote cycling nationally and prepare riders for Olympic qualification.
Pal added that the race could potentially pave the way for India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. He added, “This event opens a direct pathway for our riders toward Olympic qualification and changes how cycling is viewed by governments, sponsors, and stakeholders across the country.”
With just 72 hours to go, India will field its largest-ever contingent of 12 riders, split between the National Team and Development Team. At the press meet, the riders spoke about their preparation, expectations, and pride in representing the country. Coaches called it a golden opportunity for exposure, while athletes praised the top-quality gear, scenic routes, and seamless logistics. They also urged Punekars to come out and cheer for the riders.
Indian National Team coach Joginder Singh said, “The Pune Grand Tour is historic for Indian cycling. With a strong mix of young and experienced riders in the Indian team, this UCI 2.2 event can be a real turning point for the growth of professional road cycling in India.”
Rider Surya Thathu added, “This is a huge moment for Indian cycling. Races like the Pune Grand Tour were something we once watched only on television, and to compete in a multi-stage race of this scale in India, especially in my home state of Maharashtra, is incredibly special. More races like this will give young riders real opportunities, just as regular racing does in countries like Belgium.”
The press conference was attended by Maninder Pal Singh, CFI Secretary General, alongside Indian National Team Chief Coach Maxat Ayazabayev, Coach Joginder Singh, and several riders from both the National and Development Teams, including Harshveer Singh Sekhon, Vishvajeet Singh, Surya Thathu, Akshar Tyagi, and Manav Sarda.
Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026 is India’s first-ever UCI 2.2 category multi-stage, five-day Continental Cycling Race for Men, marking a milestone in India’s global professional cycling presence. The 437-km route spans the Deccan Plateau and Sahyadri Ranges, featuring 171 elite riders from 29 teams across 35 countries. Organized by Pune District Administration and the Government of Maharashtra under the Cycling Federation of India, the race blends sporting excellence with Pune’s cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and rural tourism across 9 talukas and 150 villages.
The Pune Grand Tour’s success hinges on a 75-day infrastructure overhaul, upgrading roads to UCI standards with safety protocols. This world-class setup reinforces Pune’s “Cycle Capital” legacy, sets a blueprint for urban-rural development, and positions India as a global hub for competitive cycling and sports tourism.
