Kigali, Rwanda — September 21, 2025 The hills of Kigali echoed with history today as Switzerland’s Marlen Reusser delivered a commanding performance to claim the 2025 UCI Women’s Elite Individual Time Trial World Championship. Against a backdrop of lush landscapes and roaring local support, Reusser completed the 31.2km course in a blistering 43:09.34, securing her place atop the podium and etching her name into cycling’s elite.
⏱️ A Race Against Time, A Triumph of Precision
The Individual Time Trial (ITT) is often called the “race of truth”—no drafting, no teammates, just the rider and the clock. Reusser embraced that truth with surgical focus, navigating Kigali’s undulating terrain and 460 meters of elevation gain with relentless power and poise.
Starting from the Gahanga Cricket Stadium, riders faced a technically demanding route that wound through Gikondo and culminated at the iconic Kigali Convention Centre (KCC). Reusser’s pacing was near-perfect, her cadence unwavering, and her descent into the final kilometers was a masterclass in control.
Dutch Power, Swiss Precision
Behind Reusser, the Netherlands showcased its depth with Anna van der Breggen finishing second at +51.89 seconds, and Demi Vollering securing third at +1:04.73. Both riders put in valiant efforts, but Reusser’s dominance was undeniable.
The top 10 results:
| Rank | Rider | Nation | Time | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marlen Reusser | SUI | 43:09.34 | — |
| 2 | Anna van der Breggen | NED | +51.89 | |
| 3 | Demi Vollering | NED | +1:04.73 | |
| 4 | Brodie Chapman | AUS | +1:08.27 | |
| 5 | Katrine Aalerud | NOR | +1:24.34 | |
| 6 | Antonia Niedermaier | GER | +1:29.07 | |
| 7 | Juliette Labous | FRA | +1:32.94 | |
| 8 | Anna Henderson | GBR | +1:37.72 | |
| 9 | Chloé Dygert | USA | +2:25.43 |
Rwanda’s Moment on the Global Stage
This year’s championship marks a historic milestone—not just for the riders, but for Rwanda. Hosting the UCI Road World Championships for the first time, Kigali has proven itself a world-class venue, blending challenging terrain with breathtaking scenery and unmatched hospitality.
Local fans lined the streets, cheering every rider with infectious energy. The event has become more than a race—it’s a celebration of Rwanda’s rise in global sport, a showcase of its infrastructure, and a statement of pride.
Voices from the Finish Line
Reusser, speaking after her victory, said:
“Kigali gave us a course that demanded everything—strength, strategy, and heart. I’m proud to win here, in a place that welcomed us with such warmth and passion.”
Van der Breggen added:
“It’s an honor to race in Africa, and Rwanda has set a new standard. The atmosphere was electric.”
With the Women’s ITT concluded, attention now turns to the Men’s Elite ITT and the upcoming road races. But today belongs to Reusser—and to Kigali. The rainbow jersey has found a new champion, and Rwanda has shown the world what cycling in Africa truly looks like.
