President Paul Kagame has been awarded a prestigious medal by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to cycling development in Rwanda and Africa.

The honor was presented on Saturday, September 27, 2025, during a gala dinner in Kigali ahead of the closing of the UCI Road World Championships 2025—the first time the global event has been hosted in Africa. The ceremony was attended by Prince Albert II of Monaco and UCI President David Lappartient.

Lappartient praised Rwanda’s exceptional organization, saying Kigali exceeded expectations and showcased Africa’s passion for cycling.

“Mr. President, we will never forget your role in advancing cycling. It is an honor to present you with this medal, the same distinction we give to champions. You have made this event unforgettable,” Lappartient said.

President Kagame thanked the UCI for entrusting Rwanda with the championship, noting how the event brought joy and unity across the country.

“From the first day, the UCI brought excitement to our streets. The cheers, crowds, and laughter proved the power of sport to unite people. This championship has inspired our youth to believe in their dreams,” Kagame said.

The Kigali 2025 Road World Championships have already made history as the second most-attended edition ever, attracting participants from 108 countries. The competition featured 13 categories for both men and women, including—for the first time in 104 years—a women’s under-23 race.

The championship has drawn some of the sport’s biggest stars, including world number one Tadej Pogačar of Slovenia, who will lead his national team against powerhouse squads from Belgium, Denmark, the UK, and 57 other nations in Sunday’s 267.5 km men’s elite road race.

For Rwanda, hosting the UCI World Championships not only cemented its status as a cycling hub but also marked a milestone for Africa in global sporting history.