After a Vuelta a Espana which made headlines more for disruptive protests than any sporting drama, most within cycling would have opted for a low-key World Championships in a venue devoid of political significance. But politics are once again hard to ignore with the sport’s most prestigious event held in Africa for the first time in its 104-year history.
The decision to reward Rwanda with hosting rights will shine a spotlight on the growing depth of cycling on the continent and, it is hoped, provide inspiration to younger generations looking to follow in the footsteps of groundbreaking African riders including Daniel Teklehaimanot and Biniam Girmay.
