Pune, Jan 16 (.): With just 72 hours to go until the start of India’s inaugural UCI 2.2 Continental Cycling Road Race- the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026, Indian riders are ready to embrace the experience, learning, and take up the challenge that brings them to the brink of breaking into the international circuit.

India will field its largest contingent of 12 riders for the first time, as Pune hosts the country’s first-ever UCI-accredited road race.

Prior to the biggest home test, members of the Indian contingent, comprising of two teams of 6 riders each – the Indian National Team and Indian Development Team – spoke at a media interaction on Friday about their preparation, expectations and the pride of representing India at Bajaj Pune Grand Tour. The event was attended by Maninder Pal Singh, Secretary General, Cycling Federation of India (CFI), along with Indian National Team Chief Coach Maxat Ayazabayev and Coach Joginder Singh, along with Harshveer Singh Sekhon, Vishvajeet Singh, and Surya Thathu from the first National Team, and Akshar Tyagi and Manav Sarda from the Indian Development Team.

The five-day race, scheduled from January 19 – 23, 2026, carries added weight for the peloton. For the Indian riders, the opportunity serves as preparation for Olympic goals, as it allows crucial points
accumulation for qualification to the Olympic Games in 2028.

Speaking at the event, Maninder Pal Singh, Secretary General, Cycling Federation of India, said, “The Bajaj Pune Grand Tour is a defining moment for Indian cycling. Securing a UCI 2.2 multi-stage race was not easy, and it reflects years of consistent work by the Cycling Federation of India to build credibility at the international level. This event opens a direct pathway for our riders toward Olympic qualification and changes how cycling is viewed by governments, sponsors, and stakeholders across the country. Hosting a race of this scale in India gives our athletes the opportunity to compete, learn, and progress into elite competitions.”

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