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The UCI has backed the Pune Grand Tour’s ambition to become cycling’s fourth Grand Tour, praising its world-class execution, massive crowds and global potential.
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The dream of turning the Pune Grand Tour into cycling’s unofficial “fourth Grand Tour” received a major boost after the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) threw its weight behind the event’s long-term growth and global ambitions.
Following the successful inaugural edition earlier this year, the world governing body for cycling praised the scale, organisation and execution of the Pune Grand Tour (PGT), describing it as an event that matched the standards of some of the biggest races on the international calendar.
During a special presentation before the UCI Management Committee in Lake Garda, Italy, organisers showcased the journey of the event and outlined their vision of transforming Pune into a premier sports tourism destination through cycling.
UCI Impressed By Rapid Rise
According to the organisers, the UCI was particularly struck by the fact that an event of such magnitude was conceived, planned and delivered within just six months.
“During a special presentation of the organising team of PGT before the UCI Management Committee in Lake Garda, Italy, the world governing body for cycling praised the Pune Grand Tour for delivering a race of a quality comparable to the finest cycling events in the world,” the organisers said in a statement.
The governing body also reportedly expressed surprise at how quickly the event was put together while maintaining international standards.
Massive Crowds Earn Global Praise
One of the standout aspects of the inaugural race was the overwhelming public response.
More than 2.5 million spectators attended the five-day event, making it one of the largest sporting gatherings ever witnessed in India. The UCI commended not only the turnout but also the discipline shown by spectators throughout the race.
The organisation also praised the efforts of local authorities, including the police and district administration, for ensuring smooth operations and maintaining safety despite the unprecedented crowds.
Roadmap For Growth
UCI President David Lappartient assured organisers of continued support as the event looks to establish itself among the sport’s elite races.
He said the UCI would provide expertise in urban mobility planning while also assisting in the development of grassroots cycling programmes across India.
The presentation was made by a delegation that included Jitendra Dudi, Maninder Pal Singh and Abhinav Bindra.
2027 Dates Approved
Dudi revealed that the committee has approved a tentative window for the next edition, with the 2027 Pune Grand Tour expected to be held from January 26 to January 31.
“The committee also gave its consent for the 2027 edition to be held between January 26 and January 31, allowing the event to incorporate three national holidays, while leaving the final scheduling decision to the Pune district administration,” Dudi said.
(with PTI inputs)
About the Author
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His…Read More
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