KIGALI, Rwanda – The 2024 UCI Road World Championships concluded in Kigali on Saturday, marking a monumental moment for the sport as Rwanda became the first African nation to host the prestigious event. The championships were headlined by Tadej Pogačar’s dominant title defense and a breakthrough victory for Canada’s Magdeleine Vallières Mill.
Slovenian superstar Pogačar solidified his status as the world’s top male cyclist with a stunning solo performance in the men’s elite road race. On the grueling 267.5-kilometer course, known for its punishing hills, Pogačar launched an early attack and never looked back. He powered to a commanding victory, finishing over four minutes ahead of Belgium’s Remco Evenepoel, who took the silver medal.
In the women’s elite road race, Magdeleine Vallières Mill made history for Canada, securing her country’s first-ever elite world title in the discipline. Vallières Mill crossed the finish line 23 seconds ahead of New Zealand’s Niamh Fisher-Black to claim the gold medal and the iconic rainbow jersey.
The event, which ran from September 21 to 28, was hailed as an organizational triumph. Massive, enthusiastic crowds lined the routes in Rwanda’s capital city, creating an electrifying atmosphere for the riders. The successful hosting of the event is seen as a significant milestone for Rwanda, elevating its profile as a destination for world-class cycling.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame celebrated the occasion on social media, stating, “Rwanda is proud to have hosted this historic UCI Road World Championships. I congratulate all the riders who competed across our capital city for their remarkable achievements and resilience.”
The championships have drawn widespread praise for their flawless execution, signaling a successful and impactful debut for the World Championships on the African continent.
