Rwanda Set to host Grueling World Championship Road Race – Ferrand-Prévot Eyes Historic Double
The 2025 UCI Cycling World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda, are poised to deliver a thrilling women’s road race this Saturday. Riders will face what many are calling the most challenging course in championship history, and all eyes are on France’s Juliette Ferrand-Prévot as she aims for a remarkable achievement.
The contenders & The Favourite
Several strong riders are vying for the rainbow jersey, including recent time trial medalists Marlen Reusser of Switzerland and Dutch duo Anna van der Breggen and Demi vollering. However, Ferrand-Prévot’s dominant performance at the Tour de France Femmes has positioned her as the clear favorite.
She has the opportunity to become only the second cyclist ever to win both the Tour de France Femmes and the World Championships road race in the same season.Remarkably, despite this potential for history, Ferrand-Prévot downplays any pressure.
“I have nothing to lose at this world championship, which is a bonus,” she stated. “If I perform well, it’s great, and if I’m slightly off, it’s not the end of the world.”
She emphasizes her commitment to representing France with ambition, but insists there’s “no bad pressure.” Moreover, recent personal news has already given her a sense of victory.
A Course Designed to Test Limits
The course itself is a importent factor in determining the outcome. You can expect a brutal test of endurance and climbing prowess. Riders will navigate two key ascents per lap, accumulating a total of 22 climbs throughout the race.
Here’s a breakdown of the key climbs:
* Côte de kigali Golf: A short, sharp climb of 800 meters averaging over 8% gradient.
* Côte de Kimihurura: A longer, more gradual climb of 1.3km with an average gradient of 6.3%. This climb tops out just one kilometer from the finish line, followed by a final ramp to the finish.
The cumulative altitude gain of 3350 meters is believed to be the highest ever for a World Championship circuit. This demanding course promises a spectacular four hours of racing and a truly deserving champion.
What to Expect on Race Day
Expect a race of attrition. The relentless climbing will likely force a selection, and tactical awareness will be crucial. You’ll want to watch for aggressive moves on the steeper gradients and strategic positioning in the final kilometers.
The challenging course will undoubtedly reward a rider with remarkable climbing ability, strong endurance, and a willingness to push their limits. The next wearer of the rainbow jersey will have truly earned it.
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