By Okon Ekpenyong

Cycling in Eritrea has a rich history dating back to the 1940s during Italian colonial rule. Notable milestones include establishing cycling clubs in Asmara and the successful participation of Eritrean cyclists in prestigious international competitions such as the Tour de France, Giro d’italia, and others.

Key figures like Daniel Teklehaimanot and Biniam Girmay have made significant contributions, breaking barriers and achieving remarkable success in cycling.

Eritrea holds a prominent position in African cycling, leading in points according to the Union Cycliste Internationale. While Eritrea stands out, countries like South Africa, Uganda, Morocco, Algeria, and Mauritius have also produced exceptional cyclists who have excelled in both African and international races, showcasing the continent’s growing popularity and level of cycling talent. It is essential to recognize and celebrate the achievements of all African countries in cycling, fostering unity and respect within the African cycling community.

The success of Eritrea in cycling cannot solely be attributed to Italian influence from colonization. Training, dedication, and natural talent also play a significant role. It is crucial to acknowledge and applaud Eritrea’s achievements in cycling while also recognizing the accomplishments of other African countries in the sport.

Eritrea currently leads in African points according to the Union Cycliste Internationale, with Girmay presently holding the top ranking. The Africa tour rankings also feature three leaders from Eritrea, highlighting the country’s dominance in the sport.

In an exciting development, Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is set to host the prestigious 2025 UCI Road World Championships, marking the first time an African nation will host this prestigious event. The competition will feature a variety of cycling disciplines for both men and women, including road cycling, track cycling, cyclo-cross, mountain biking, gravel, BMX, and indoor cycling, to determine the world champions of the season.

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