Pune, Dec 13 (NationPress) – A significant milestone awaits India as it gears up to host the inaugural UCI 2.2 Pune Grand Tour 2026, a prestigious Continental Men’s Team Elite Road Cycling Race. Set to take place from January 19 to 23, 2026, this pioneering event aims to kick off the international cycling calendar with a challenging four-stage competition that promises to be a spectacular showcase on a global scale.

The Pune Grand Tour 2026 anticipates participation from 28 elite teams worldwide, including four national teams from some of the top cycling nations. India will proudly present two national squads, named ‘India A’ and ‘India B’.

This landmark sporting initiative has been envisioned and spearheaded by the Pune District Administration, with strong backing from the Government of Maharashtra. The four-stage race will cover a total distance of 437 kilometers, navigating through Pune’s urban areas, culturally rich sites, and picturesque rural stretches. The event aims to not only highlight world-class cycling but also to enhance the region's tourism, environmental awareness, and infrastructure development.

In response to the overwhelming global interest, Jitendra Dudi (IAS), Collector of Pune District and Officer In-charge of the Pune Grand Tour, remarked, “We are thrilled and honored by the enthusiastic response from across the globe for the inaugural Pune Grand Tour. Major cycling nations such as the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, etc., have expressed keen interest, with many confirming their participation.”

“The Union Cycliste Internationale is highly motivated to promote cycling in India. This is Pune’s opportunity to emerge as an international cycling hub, and we are confident in delivering an exceptional event,” he added.

Four Stages, One Grand Challenge

The Pune Grand Tour 2026 will comprise four thrilling stages, with routes designed to challenge even the most seasoned cyclists. Spanning 437 km, the routes will traverse diverse terrains, from the vibrant city to the tranquil Sahyadri foothills, presenting tough climbs, speedy flats, and iconic landmarks that will test endurance, strategy, and cycling skills.

Stage 1 will cover 91.8 km, featuring an elevation of 956m around the Mulsi-Maval area. This opening stage integrates flat sprints with sharp urban turns, showcasing landmarks while blending technology with nature.

Stage 2 will revolve around the Maratha Heritage Circuit, encompassing 109.15 km with an elevation of 1466 m. Cyclists will tackle steep gradients while enjoying breathtaking vistas of Purandar Fort, Sinhagad, and Khadakwasla Lake, making this stage a true endurance test.

Stage 3 will take place around the Western Ghats Gateway, covering 137.07 km with an elevation of 820 m. This route will stretch across the Deccan plateau from Purandar to Baramati, favoring speed and tactical skills amidst crosswinds and rolling terrain.

Stage 4, the Pune Pride Loop, will be 99.15 km long with an elevation of 560 m. The final stage weaves through the urban expanse of Pune, merging modernity and historical significance, including Shaniwar Wada, featuring technical sections and a dramatic finish in the city's heart.

With the global sporting community’s eyes trained on Pune this coming January, the Pune Grand Tour 2026 aims not only to elevate India’s presence on the global cycling map but also to inspire a new generation of sports enthusiasts, positioning the nation as a premier venue for future UCI events.