Will India Field Two Elite Teams for the Pune Grand Tour 2026?
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Synopsis
Get ready for the Pune Grand Tour 2026! The Cycling Federation of India has announced selection trials for elite men’s cyclists to form two teams. This inaugural UCI 2.2 category event promises fierce competition and a chance for athletes to shine on an international stage.
Key Takeaways
- Two teams, 'India A' and 'India B', will compete in the Pune Grand Tour.
- The event is scheduled from January 19-23, 2026.
- The selection trials will happen from December 2-6, 2025, in Sambalpur.
- The tour aims to secure a permanent spot in the UCI calendar.
- It is linked to qualification for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics.
New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) The Cycling Federation of India (CFI) has declared the initiation of selection trials for elite male cyclists in India, with plans to form two teams, ‘India A’ and ‘India B’, for the upcoming Pune Grand Tour – India’s first UCI 2.2 classified Road Race scheduled from January 19-23, 2026.
The National Road Cycling Championship combined with the selection trial will take place from December 2-6, 2025, in Sambalpur, Odisha. The selected athletes will subsequently participate in a National Road Race in Pune on December 28 for further evaluation.
The inclusion of two Indian teams - 'India A' and 'India B' - will create an extensive platform for both upcoming and experienced cyclists to exhibit their talents on both national and international levels.
The ambitious Pune Grand Tour 2026 aims to secure Pune, and India's, permanent position in the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) global calendar. The inaugural event is expected to draw elite international cyclists, promising intense competition and top-tier sporting action.
The Tour will consist of four stages with a total distance of 437 km, traversing through the picturesque landscapes of the Pune district, making it one of the most anticipated cycling events in the nation.
Commenting on the forthcoming selection trial, Maninder Pal Singh, General Secretary of the Cycling Federation of India, stated, “The National Championship-cum-selection trial is integral to assembling our strongest line-ups for the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026. Establishing two teams, India A and India B, signifies our commitment to fostering a wider talent pool and enhancing the level of Indian cycling.”
The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is also linked to qualification for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics, allowing global participants to earn essential race points through a multi-stage, multi-day road race.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the significance of the Pune Grand Tour 2026 for Indian cycling. This event not only provides a platform for local talent but also enhances India's standing on the global cycling map. The two-team strategy by the CFI highlights their commitment to nurturing talent, making this initiative vital for the sport's future in the country.
NationPress
28/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pune Grand Tour 2026?
The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is India's first UCI 2.2 category Road Race, scheduled to take place from January 19-23, 2026, featuring elite international cyclists.
How will the selection trials be conducted?
The selection trials will take place from December 2-6, 2025, in Sambalpur, Odisha, followed by a National Road Race in Pune on December 28 for further evaluation.
Why are two teams being formed?
The formation of two teams, 'India A' and 'India B', allows for a broader platform for both emerging and experienced cyclists to compete and showcase their abilities.
What is the significance of the Pune Grand Tour for Olympic qualification?
The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is linked to qualification for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics, providing international participants an opportunity to earn critical race points.
What can participants expect from the race routes?
The tour will feature four stages with challenging routes spanning 437 km through the scenic landscapes of the Pune district.
