THE INAUGURAL Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026, a UCI 2.2 Continental multi-stage men’s cycling race, is set to welcome a strong field of 171 elite riders, representing 29 teams from 35 countries across five continents.
Organised by the Pune District Administration with support from the Government of Maharashtra, the five-day race will cover 437 kilometres, comprising a prologue and four stages. The route will showcase Pune’s varied terrain, taking riders through historic landmarks and the demanding ghats of the Deccan plateau.
Scheduled to take place from 19 to 23 January, India’s first UCI 2.2 event has drawn confirmed entries from professional teams across the globe. Teams from 29 countries including cycling powerhouses such as France, Great Britain, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, China and Thailand will converge on Pune for the competition.
Asia will provide the largest contingent with 78 riders, followed by 69 from Europe, 12 from Oceania, and six each from the Americas and Africa.
While UCI 2.2 races typically feature pelotons capped at around 125 riders, the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour will set a new benchmark by accommodating 171 participants. The line-up will include 29 competitive teams, among them an Indian squad of six riders, selected recently at the National Championships in Odisha, according to the event’s media release.
Bajaj Pune Grand Tour officer in-charge Jitendra Dudi (IAS) said, “This is a watershed moment for Pune and India, and we are ready to deliver a race that sets a new global benchmark for the UCI Asia Tours. This isn’t just a race; it is the arrival of India as new powerhouse in the professional cycling circuit. This is a moment of pride for Pune to reclaim its original identity of ‘Cycle Capital’. The inaugural edition will be a landmark day for India to establish itself as an international cycling destination. For us, the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour is not just about hosting a race; we aim to create a legacy for Pune and India. We are inspired by the 120 years of legacy ‘Tour de France’ has created. The record participation for Pune Grand Tour further reinforces our belief that India can now have its own ‘Pro Tour’ in near future, with Pune proudly leading India’s aspiration.”
Bajaj Pune Grand Tour technical director Pinaki Bysack added, “To witness a UCI 2.2 category race attract a peloton of 171-rider mark is unprecedented. For India to do it in first year of its Pune Grand Tour is a momentous occasion for international cycling event globally. This record breaking turnout from five continents is a testament to the technical prestige and the challenging topography Pune District offers. Managing a field of this magnitude requires precision and world-class standards. I must appreciate the vision and the dedication at which Pune District Collector Mr Jitendra Dudi has undertaken the task of creating the required infrastructure of international standard in a record time span, is truly unprecedented in Indian sporting history.”
Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026 will feature four state routes covering 437-km:
* Stage 1 – MULSI-MAVAL MILES (91.8 km, Elevation 956m): Weaving through Pune’s IT hub Hinjewadi, this opening stage combines flat sprints with sharp urban turns, focusing on landmarks and scenery.
* Stage 2 – MARATHA HERITAGE CIRCUIT (109.15 km, Elevation 1466m): Cyclists will ascend the challenging ghats, facing steep gradients and breathtaking views of Purandar Fort, Sinhagad and Khadakwasla Lake, making the Day-2 race a test of endurance and climbing ability.
* State 3 – WESTERN GHATS GATEWAY (137.07 km, Elevation 820m): Stretching across the Deccan plateau from Purandar to Baramati, Day-3 favours speed and tactical prowess, with crosswinds and rolling terrain to keep competitors on edge.
* Stage 4 – PUNE PRIDE LOOP (99.15 km, Elevation 560m): The final phase race winds through the urban sprawls of Pune city, passing through modernity and historic relevance like Shaniwar Wada, featuring technical sections and a finish in the heart of city.
