Tour Du Rwanda 2024: Champion absence, new routes and more

by | Feb 14, 2024 | Cycling - Men, Cycling - Mens - Road Race, Tour du Rwanda

Source Credit: Le Canape

The 2024 Tour du Rwanda is poised for an exhilarating start, with cyclists gearing up to fire off the event on Sunday the 18th of February at the BK Arena. The journey will culminate at the majestic Kigali Convention Centre on the 25th of February.

Last year’s victor, Eritrean cyclist Henok Mulubrhan, unfortunately, won’t be among this year’s contenders. A broken collarbone has side-lined him, but his determination remains unwavering as he focuses on recovery, eyeing a return to the saddle in the weeks ahead.

Renowned as one of Africa’s prestigious cycling events, the Tour du Rwanda showcases the stunning landscapes of Rwanda, featuring a backdrop of beauty with over 1000 hills.

Cyclists hailing from various corners of the globe converge for a shot at the coveted title and a chance to etch their names in cycling history. For African riders, it’s an invaluable platform to exhibit their prowess alongside the world’s elite teams.

This year’s edition spans a challenging 740km, featuring the longest stage yet: the Rukomo (Gicumbi) – Kayonza route stretching 163km.

Freddy Kamuzinzi, the Director General of Tour du Rwanda, underscores the race’s significance and its evolution, highlighting new routes and features slated for the 16th edition.

โ€œThis yearโ€™s edition of Tour du Rwanda will see new and shorter routes to maximize the potential of athletes.โ€ Revealed Kamuzinzi.

The Director added, โ€œ For the first time ever we want to broadcast all the stages live on TV thanks to the partnership with Rwanda Broadcasting Agency and Canal +โ€

Here’s a glimpse of the thrilling stages awaiting the cyclists:

โ€ข Stage 1: BK Arena โ€“ KCC Roundabout (Team Time Trial: 18km)

โ€ข Stage 2: Muhanga – Kibeho: 130km

โ€ข Stage 3: Huye – Rusizi: 141km

โ€ข Stage 4: Karongi – Rubavu: 92km

โ€ข Stage 5: Musanze – Kinigi (Individual Time Trial: 13km)

โ€ข Stage 6: Musanze – Mont Kigali: 93km

โ€ข Stage 7: Rukomo (Gicumbi) – Kayonza: 163km

โ€ข Stage 8: Kigali Convention Centre โ€“ Kigali Convention Centre: 90km

With 20 teams poised to participate, anticipation runs high for a tour that promises to redefine the boundaries of cycling and unveil new heights of greatness.

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