Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026: A Milestone for Indian Cycling

The Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026 is set to be a groundbreaking event in Indian cycling, marking the country's first UCI 2.2 category race. Scheduled from January 19 to 23, 2026, this five-stage race will feature 171 elite cyclists from 29 teams across 35 countries. With the Indian national cycling team arriving in Pune for final preparations, the event promises to elevate India's status in the global cycling arena. The Cycling Federation of India will field two national teams, providing both seasoned and emerging riders a chance to compete at an elite level. This landmark event is expected to be a significant milestone for the sport in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 22:06 IST

Introduction to the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026

The Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026 is set to be a historic event as it marks India's inaugural Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 2.2 category multi-stage Continental Road Cycling Race for men. Scheduled from January 19 to 23, 2026, this five-stage race, backed by Bajaj, will span 437 kilometers and feature 171 elite cyclists from 29 teams across 35 countries worldwide.

Organizational Support and Route Details

This significant event is organized by the Pune District Administration with support from the Government of Maharashtra and the Cycling Federation of India (CFI). The race will traverse through 9 talukas and 150 villages, effectively placing Pune and India on the UCI's global calendar.

Arrival of the Indian Cycling Team

As excitement builds for this landmark event, the Indian national cycling team has arrived in Pune, marking the final stages of preparation for the country's largest international road cycling competition.

India's Representation with Two National Teams

The CFI has announced that India will participate with two national teams: the Indian National Team and the Indian Development Team. This strategic decision aims to expand the competitive landscape while offering both experienced and emerging cyclists a chance to compete at a high level on home turf.

Composition of the Indian National Team

The Indian National Team comprises notable riders including Naveen John (Karnataka), Sahil Kumar (Haryana), Dinesh Kumar (Rourkela), Harshveer Singh Sekhon (Punjab), Vishwajeet Singh (Punjab), and Surya Thathu (Maharashtra), representing the country's elite cycling talent.

Introducing the Indian Development Team

The Indian Development Team features promising cyclists such as Sachin Desai, Niraj Kumar, Vivaan Sapru, Manav Sarda, Chirag Sehgal, and Akshar Tyagi, showcasing the next wave of talent in Indian road cycling.

Selection Process for the Teams

The selection of the two teams was conducted through a rigorous evaluation process, which included the National Road Cycling Championship-cum-selection trials held in Sambalpur, Odisha, from December 2 to 6, 2025. This ensured that the riders were tested on terrains similar to those of the Grand Tour stages.

Significance of the Event for Indian Cycling

Naveen John, a cyclist from Bangalore, will lead the Indian National Team. He is notably the only Indian to have competed professionally for a UCI Continental team (State of Matter/MAAP based in Australia). Expressing his thoughts on the event, he stated, "Racing in the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour on home soil is a proud moment for us. Competing in a UCI 2.2 stage race in India is a significant advancement for the sport, and we are eager to face international competitors while representing our nation."

CFI Secretary General Maninder Pal Singh emphasized the importance of fielding two teams, stating, "The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is a pivotal moment for Indian cycling. Having two national squads enables us to expand our talent pool while providing both established and emerging riders with essential exposure at an elite international level."

With Team India now in Pune and final preparations in progress, the inaugural Pune Grand Tour is poised to become one of the most significant cycling events ever held in India, further enhancing the country's reputation in the global professional road cycling arena.