Pune Set To Host 2032 UCI Road World Championships As India’s Bid Gains Momentum

Pune is well positioned to host the 2032 UCI Road World Championships, according to reports indicating growing support for India's bid prior to a decisive vote by the Union Cycliste Internationale. If successful, this would be the first time India hosts the championship. India is competing against Groningen and Drenthe in the Netherlands for the honor.

The two groups will submit their proposals to the UCI Management Committee on September 22 in Montreal, Canada, with the final decision expected at the UCI Congress on September 23. UCI President David Lappartient and the organization's leadership are expected to back India's proposal. A victory would make India only the fourth Asian nation to host the Road World Championships, following Abu Dhabi in 2028 and Rwanda in 2025.

The event is anticipated to draw some of the world's top road cyclists. Pune's bid gained traction following the recent inaugural men's five-stage Pune Grand Tour, which drew approximately 2.5 million spectators. This demonstrates the city's capability to host a major international cycling event. The Road World Championships would elevate Pune's status on the global cycling map.

India is also exploring hosting the 2036 Olympic Games, with Ahmedabad, Doha, Turkey, and South Africa also under consideration. UCI President Lappartient, an IOC member, could influence both bids. A successful 2032 bid would provide India with further experience organizing a major global sporting event before the IOC makes its 2036 decision. For Pune, the immediate priority remains the outcome of the UCI vote.