Grand Unveiling of the 'Pride of Pune' Trophy for Upcoming Cycling Race

The Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026, India's first UCI 2.2 multi-stage cycling race, recently unveiled its 'Pride of Pune' trophy in a grand ceremony in New Delhi. This heritage-inspired trophy, crafted by Pune's Tambat Aali community, symbolizes India's ambition in the global cycling arena. The trophy will embark on a nationwide tour, visiting several states, before the race scheduled for January 2026, which will feature over 150 international cyclists. This event marks a significant milestone in India's cycling history.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 16, 2025, 21:28 IST

Introduction of the 'Pride of Pune' Trophy

On Tuesday, the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026, which marks India's inaugural Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 2.2 multi-stage road cycling event, revealed its heritage-themed trophy during a significant ceremony in New Delhi. The event was attended by notable figures, including Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President, PT Usha, who had the honor of unveiling the 'Pride of Pune'. They were accompanied by Pankaj Singh, President of the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi (IAS), CFI Chairman Onkar Singh, and CFI Secretary General Maninder Pal Singh.

Significance of the Trophy and Nationwide Tour

The trophy, crafted by the renowned Tambat Aali community of Pune, embodies the spirit, ambition, and scale of modern India. Over the next 15 days, this exquisite trophy will embark on a journey across various states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. This tour aims to convey India's readiness to establish itself on the global cycling stage, showcasing pride and a deep-rooted heritage.

Details of the Race and Its Organization

Scheduled from January 19 to 23, 2026, the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour is a four-day, four-stage road race covering a distance of 437 kilometers. It is anticipated to feature over 150 professional cyclists from 26 different countries. This landmark UCI 2.2 race in India is being organized by the Government of Maharashtra in collaboration with the Pune District Administration and the Cycling Federation of India.