Pune Pedals Into History With International Grand Tour Cycling Event

Updated: December 28, 2025 09:41

Image Source: Free Press Journal

Pune, once India’s “Cycle Capital,” will host the country’s first Grand Tour cycling event in January 2026. The UCI-recognized, 437 km multi-stage race will boost tourism, infrastructure, and global recognition. With strict anti-doping norms and fast-tracked roadworks, Pune is set to revive its cycling legacy on the world stage.

Pune, a city fondly remembered as the Cycle Capital of India during the 1960s and 70s, is set to reclaim its cycling legacy by hosting the nation’s first-ever international Grand Tour cycling event in January 2026. The event, recognized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), will bring global attention to India’s cycling ambitions and showcase Pune’s transformation into a modern sporting hub.

Key Highlights

Historic Milestone: The Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026 will be India’s first UCI Class 2.2 multi-stage road cycling race, offering riders valuable Olympic qualification points.
Race Details: Scheduled from January 19–23, 2026, the event will span 437 kilometers across nine talukas and 150 villages, combining Pune’s hilly terrain and scenic landscapes.
Infrastructure Push: Civic and state agencies have fast-tracked roadworks, resurfacing arterial routes and improving gradients, camber, and drainage systems to meet international standards.
Strict Compliance: Organizers have pledged rigorous anti-doping protocols, aligning with UCI and Cycling Federation of India guidelines to ensure fair competition.
Tourism & Legacy: Beyond sport, the event is expected to boost tourism, local economies, and global recognition for Pune, reviving its reputation as a cycling-friendly city.

Context and Impact

The preparations for the Grand Tour have triggered unprecedented coordination among civic bodies, usually seen only during major elections or religious festivals. The Public Works Department (PWD) has set strict deadlines, even imposing penalties on contractors to ensure timely completion of road projects.

For Pune, this event is more than just a race—it is a revival of its cycling heritage and a chance to position itself as an international sporting destination. With participation from elite global cyclists, the Grand Tour will not only inspire Indian athletes but also embed cycling deeper into the country’s sporting culture.

Challenges Ahead

While enthusiasm is high, organizers face challenges in ensuring seamless logistics, crowd management, and weather preparedness. However, the city’s commitment to infrastructure upgrades and adherence to international standards suggests that Pune is ready to deliver a world-class event.

Sources: Hindustan Times, Times of India, UNI India, The Bridge Chronicle, Times of India

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