On the evening of September 27, 2025, the Kigali Convention Centre sparkled with music, lights, and applause as the UCI Road World Championships Gala Dinner brought together cycling’s elite. But it was the words of President Paul Kagame and UCI President David Lappartient that set the tone for the night, blending politics, sport, and pride into one story.
Kagame took the stage with a message that went far beyond cycling. He told the audience that Rwanda’s successful hosting of the world championships was proof that Africa, too, could deliver world-class events. “The main rule of any sport is fairness,” he said, “and that principle should guide global event hosting.” With that, he directly challenged the idea that global competitions belong only to a select group of wealthy nations. For him, Kigali’s week of races wasn’t just about medals—it was about rewriting perceptions.
The president underscored how Rwandans’ unity played a decisive role. From volunteers lining the streets to families opening their homes to visitors, the country had presented itself as a nation that stands together. Kagame reminded guests that more than 100 countries, including 36 from Africa, had competed, calling it “a statement of inclusion and shared pride.” For Rwanda, it was a collective achievement, not just a government project.
David Lappartient’s speech struck a different but complementary note. Speaking as the head of the UCI, he described how delegates and teams who had initially been unsure about Rwanda’s capacity were now leaving with admiration. “They did not know what to expect,” he said, “but when they discovered Rwanda’s readiness, they said simply: ‘Wow.’” He praised the flawless organization, the security, and above all, the natural beauty of Rwanda—the rolling hills, lush landscapes, and Kigali’s vibrant skyline—which he said added a unique dimension to the event.
Together, the two speeches told a larger story. Kagame positioned Rwanda as a country breaking barriers and reshaping Africa’s image on the global stage. Lappartient positioned UCI as an institution ready to embrace new horizons, with Rwanda as a shining example. The result was a night where politics and sport met seamlessly, where unity and beauty amplified achievement, and where Kigali’s gala became not only a celebration of cycling but also a declaration of Africa’s readiness to take its place in the global arena.
