On September 28, 2025, global attention will turn to Kigali, Rwanda, as the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Road World Championships reach their grand finale at the Kigali Convention Centre (KCC) roundabout. At the center of this landmark event, one rider will claim the Rainbow Jersey — the ultimate symbol of mastery in professional cycling.
While both men’s and women’s races will captivate spectators, the spotlight shines brightest on the men’s elite road race, featuring a record 220 competitors. The event began on September 21 at BK Arena, marking the first time in its 103-year history that the World Championships are being held in Africa.
The Rainbow Jersey, a tradition since 1927, is instantly recognizable by its white base and five colored bands representing global unity and cycling excellence. In Kigali, the battle to earn this prestigious jersey has narrowed the spotlight to a few standout names.
Belgium’s Remco Evenepoel, the defending champion, is seen as the man to beat. He enters the race chasing his third consecutive world title after a season that included a Tour de France time trial win. His fiercest rival is Slovenia’s Tadej Pogačar, who took the Rainbow Jersey in 2024 and has dominated this season with major victories at the Tour des Flandres, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and the Tour de France.
Other contenders include the Netherlands’ Thymen Arensman, Australia’s Jay Vine and Luke Plapp, Mexico’s rising star Isaac del Toro, Spain’s Iván Romeo, and American Magnus Sheffield. African cyclists, including Rwanda’s Moise Mugisha and Vainqueur Masengesho, will also chase glory on home soil, cheered on by passionate local fans.
As the race unfolds across Rwanda’s hilly terrain, one question dominates: who will earn the right to wear the Rainbow Jersey in 2025? Will Evenepoel extend his reign, will Pogačar reclaim the crown, or will a new name rise to make history in Kigali?
On September 28, the streets of Rwanda will provide the answer.