Pune is set to host the Pune Grand Tour 2026, a landmark event poised to become India’s first UCI 2.2 multi-stage cycling race and a qualifier for the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. Scheduled from January 19 to 23, 2026, the event marks a significant milestone in India's sporting history, placing the nation on the global cycling map.
The Pune Grand Tour 2026, classified as an elite event in UCI's annual calendar, aims to promote a cycling culture within India and inspire a new generation of athletes. The event's official emblem and mascot were recently unveiled, demonstrating India's commitment to joining the international cycling community. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the Pune Grand Tour represents a defining moment for the state's sporting vision and demonstrates a commitment to developing sports infrastructure.
The race will cover 437 kilometers across diverse terrains in the Pune district, including urban areas, hills, and rural settings. The route is designed to showcase Maharashtra's varied topography and highlight the region's Sahyadri mountains, historical forts, grasslands, hill stations, and religious sites.
The event is a collaborative effort between the Pune District Administration, Maharashtra's Ministry for Sports and Youth Welfare, and the Cycling Federation of India. Shri Jitendra Dudi, Pune District Collector and Pune Grand Tour in-charge, envisions the event as a catalyst for a cycling revolution in India, encouraging youth to pursue cycling professionally.
The Pune Grand Tour is more than just a sporting event; it is also expected to boost tourism and drive economic growth in the region. The event is aligned with the "Fit India Movement," promoting fitness and health through cycling. Furthermore, the development of road infrastructure for the event, with an investment of Rs 422 crore, will align with global cycling standards and benefit the region.
Sponsors including the Bajaj Group, Serum Institute of India, Chiatale, and Panchshil Group have committed Rs 35 crore towards the event and prize money. It is anticipated that more sponsors will join to enhance support.
With approximately 25 countries confirming participation, the Pune Grand Tour is set to position India on the global cycling map, boost tourism, and promote cycling as a viable commuting option. A national racing event will be organized in December 2025 as a precursor to the main event. Indu, an Indian giant squirrel, will serve as the official mascot of the Pune Grand Tour.
The Pune Grand Tour 2026 aims to establish Pune as a global sports and tourism hub, leveraging the city's rich cycling legacy and promoting cycling as a way to combat lifestyle diseases, traffic congestion, and pollution. The event seeks to revive Pune's identity as India's cycling capital and inspire a new generation of riders.
