Team Rwanda has departed for the United Arab Emirates to compete in the Sharjah Tour 2026, a UCI-rated international cycling race that will test the country’s riders against strong global competition.
The team left Kigali on Tuesday, January 20, ahead of the five-stage race scheduled to take place from January 23 to 27 in Sharjah.
The Sharjah Tour is classified as a UCI 2.2 event on the Union Cycliste Internationale calendar, making it one of the prominent races on the Asian circuit and a key opportunity for riders to earn international ranking points.
Six cyclists will represent Team Rwanda at the tour: Eric Manizabayo, Shadrack Ufitimana, Moïse Mugisha, Shemu Nsengiyumva, Samuel Niyonkuru and Eric Nkundabera.
Before the team’s departure, the President of the Rwanda Cycling Federation, FERWACY, Samson Ndayishimiye, officially handed over the national flag to the riders, urging them to maintain discipline and represent the country with pride on the international stage.
The delegation is led by head coach Félix Sempoma, supported by team doctor Obed Ruvogera, while Théoneste Karasira serves as the team mechanic.
The Sharjah Tour will cover a total distance of 503 kilometers across five stages, including an individual time trial and several mass-start stages. A total of 162 riders from different countries are expected to take part in the race.
For Rwanda, the competition offers more than just race exposure. Cycling officials say participation in UCI-rated events such as the Sharjah Tour is critical to building riders’ experience, improving international rankings and preparing athletes for higher-level continental and global competitions.
Team Rwanda’s appearance in the UAE also reflects the country’s broader ambition to strengthen its presence on the global cycling scene, following years of investment in the sport and consistent participation in international races across Africa, Europe and Asia.
