INDIA IS GEARING UP to host its first-ever UCI 2.2 Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026, a continental teams’ men’s elite road cycling race, scheduled from 19 to 23 January 2026 in the Pune district. Marking a major milestone for Indian cycling, the multi-stage event will open the international cycling calendar with a four-day challenge designed to deliver a world-class spectacle.
The debut edition is expected to feature 28 competitive teams from around the world, including four national squads from leading cycling nations. India will be represented by two national teams, ‘India A’ and ‘India B’.
Conceptualised by the Pune District Administration and supported by the Government of Maharashtra, the race will cover a 437-kilometre route across Pune’s urban corridors, culturally rich heritage sites and its scenic rural expanse. Beyond delivering high-calibre sporting action, the event is envisioned to boost regional tourism, environmental awareness and infrastructure development.
Pune Grand Tour officer in-charge Jitendra Dudi (IAS) said, “We are extremely happy and honoured to see the magnitude of world’s response for the inaugural year of Pune Grand Tour. Major cycling countries like United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Germany, Netherland, Australia, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand etc have shown keen interest with many having confirmed participation. Union Cycliste International is very keen to help promote the sport in India. This is Pune’s moment to establish itself as an international cycling destination and we are confident to deliver a world class event.”
