“There is No Plan B”: UCI President David Lappartient on the Rwanda World Championships

“There is No Plan B”: UCI President David Lappartient on the Rwanda World Championships

In an exclusive interview, Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) President David Lappartient discussed the upcoming 2025 UCI Road World Championships, set to take place in Kigali, Rwanda. Lappartient emphasized the UCI’s commitment to hosting a successful event in Rwanda, stating that “there is no plan B.”

A Historic Opportunity for African Cycling

The 2025 UCI Road World Championships will mark the first time the event has been held in Africa. Lappartient highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting that it presents a unique opportunity for African cycling to shine on the global stage.

“Africa is a continent with enormous potential for cycling,” Lappartient said. “By hosting the World Championships in Rwanda, we aim to promote the development of cycling on the continent and provide a platform for African riders to compete against the world’s best.”

Rwanda’s Readiness to Host the Event

Lappartient expressed confidence in Rwanda’s ability to host a successful World Championships. He praised the country’s modern infrastructure, including the state-of-the-art Amahoro Stadium, which will serve as the event’s main venue.

“Rwanda has made significant investments in its infrastructure, and we are impressed with the country’s readiness to host the event,” Lappartient said. “We are working closely with the Rwandan authorities to ensure that every aspect of the event is meticulously planned and executed.”

Addressing Concerns and Challenges

Lappartient acknowledged that hosting the World Championships in Rwanda presents unique challenges, including logistical and security concerns. However, he emphasized that the UCI is working diligently to address these issues and ensure a smooth and safe event.

“We take the safety and security of our athletes, officials, and spectators very seriously,” Lappartient said. “We are working closely with the Rwandan authorities and international experts to ensure that every necessary precaution is taken to guarantee a secure and successful event.”

A Bright Future for Cycling in Africa

As the UCI prepares to bring the World Championships to Africa for the first time, Lappartient is optimistic about the future of cycling on the continent.

“Africa has the potential to become a major player in the world of cycling,” Lappartient said. “By hosting the World Championships in Rwanda, we aim to inspire a new generation of African cyclists and provide a catalyst for the growth and development of the sport on the continent.”

Conclusion

As the 2025 UCI Road World Championships approach, the UCI is committed to hosting a successful and memorable event in Rwanda. With no “plan B” in place, Lappartient and his team are working tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the event is meticulously planned and executed.

As the cycling world descends upon Kigali, Rwanda, the stage is set for a historic and unforgettable event that will showcase the best of African cycling and provide a platform for the sport to grow and flourish on the continent.