Pune, Jan 16 (NationPress) The anticipation is building for the inaugural Pune Grand Tour 2026, marking India’s first UCI 2.2 multi-stage road race. With teams arriving from continents including Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Oceania, Pune is poised to showcase a truly international cycling event. Scheduled from January 19 to 23, the race will cover 437 km across four stages, navigating the varied landscapes of Pune District.

This premier event has attracted 29 teams from 35 countries, amplifying its global allure right from the start.

Among the international contingents, the Sidi Ali Unlock Sports Team from Morocco stands out, featuring athletes like Ahmed Echahed and Alejandro Gainza Rodriguez, who bring a wealth of experience from both African and international racing arenas.

Another notable presence is the 7-Eleven Cliqq Roadbike Philippines, a prominent team from Southeast Asia. Their roster includes accomplished riders such as Jonel Carcueva and Mervin Corpuz, who are familiar faces in major Asian cycling tours.

Representing Indonesia, the ASC Monsters and Nusantara Cycling Team add further depth to the competition, showcasing riders like Muhammad Aflah and Muh Imam Arifin, known for their prowess in Asian stage races.

Oceania’s representation comes from EuroCyclingTrips – CCN from Guam, with talented cyclists like Stefan James Bennett and David Drouin, bringing diverse skills to the race.

Great Britain's Schils Doltcini RT, featuring cyclists such as Eugene Cross, has also joined the fray, further internationalizing the event.

Completing the international roster is the Mauritius National Team, including Lucas Froget and Torea Celestin, which adds even more variety to the peloton.

As preparations continue, 171 riders from both international and local teams are set to compete, establishing the Pune Grand Tour 2026 as a hallmark event that could elevate India’s standing in the international cycling community. This multi-stage race is a significant leap for India in the global cycling circuit, traversing the picturesque Deccan Plateau and Sahyadri Ranges.

Organized by the Pune District Administration and the Government of Maharashtra, the event is under the auspices of the Cycling Federation of India, emphasizing high-performance sporting excellence while celebrating Pune’s rich cultural heritage across 9 talukas and 150 villages.

The event's success is supported by extensive infrastructure improvements, including swift road constructions and safety enhancements within a 75-day timeframe. This initiative aligns with UCI standards, ensuring a safe and competitive environment. By hosting such a prestigious event, Pune reclaims its title as India’s 'Cycle Capital' and sets a blueprint for sustainable urban-rural development while positioning the nation as a prime destination for international sports tourism.

Race Stages for Pune Grand Prix 2026:

Jan 19: PROLOGUE (7.5 KM) – GOODLUCK CHOWK: Team’s pole position

Jan 20: STAGE 1: MULSI-MAVAL MILES (87.2 KM, Elevation 828 M): This stage features flat sprints and sharp turns through Pune’s IT hub, showcasing both technology and nature.

Jan 21: STAGE 2: MARATHA HERITAGE CIRCUIT (105.3 KM, Elevation 1051 M): Riders will tackle steep gradients at Purandar Fort and Sinhagad, testing their endurance.

Jan 22: STAGE 3: WESTERN GHATS GATEWAY (134 KM, Elevation 1024 M): This stage emphasizes speed and strategy, navigating the rolling terrains of the Deccan plateau.

Jan 23: STAGE 4: PUNE PRIDE LOOP (95 KM, Elevation 578 M): The finale winds through Pune’s urban landscape, blending historic sites with modernity for a thrilling conclusion.