Some of the top road racers will compete in the Pune Grand Tour 2026, India’s first Continental multi-stage Road Race for men under the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 2.2 category. This event marks India’s official entry into the global professional cycling calendar, offering Indian cyclists a chance to compete against international teams on home ground. The race aims to bridge the gap between domestic and global cycling by providing exposure to elite race dynamics and UCI-level competition.
The Pune Grand Tour’s inclusion in the UCI calendar signifies India’s emergence as a key market for professional cycling in Asia. With a focus on infrastructure development, talent nurturing, and international exposure, India is gearing up for a professional cycling future. Riders at the Pune Grand Tour 2026 will earn valuable ranking points crucial for qualifying for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics. The competition kicks off with the Prologue to determine pole positions before the race officially begins.
Morocco’s team withdrawal has reduced the field to 164 riders from 28 teams representing 35 countries across five continents. Despite this, India boasts the largest rider contingent in the UCI 2.2 category race globally. The event, typically featuring around 125 riders, will see Asia leading with 78 riders, followed by Europe, Oceania, the Americas, and Africa, showcasing the event’s global appeal.
Spain’s Burgos Burpellet BH, ranked 29th globally, is a crowd favorite at the Pune Grand Tour 2026. They face tough competition from China’s Li Ning Star (world ranking 33) and Malaysia’s Terengganu Cycling Team (world ranking 38) for the Pune Trophy. The top six UCI World Ranking teams participating include Burgos Burpellet BH, Li Ning Star, Terengganu Cycling Team, Rojai Insurance Winspace, Quick Pro Team, and Tarteletto-Isorex.
India’s challenge is led by a strong national team featuring experienced riders like Sahil Kumar, Dinesh Kumar, Surya Thathu, Vishwajeet Singh, Harshveer Singh Sikhon, and M. Naveen John. The Indian Development Team’s inclusion is a positive step for nurturing future talent. The winners of the tour will receive a hand-crafted copper trophy, symbolizing Pune’s heritage and the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The Pune Grand Tour 2026, a UCI 2.2 category multi-stage Continental Cycling Race for Men, covers a challenging 437-km route through the Deccan Plateau and Sahyadri Ranges. With 171 elite riders from 29 teams and 35 countries, the event showcases India’s growing presence in global cycling. Organized by Pune District Administration, the race signifies India’s readiness to host world-class cycling events.
