MS Dhoni Appointed Goodwill Ambassador for Pune Grand Tour 2026

India is set to make a historic entry into global professional cycling with the Pune Grand Tour 2026. Adding star power to the event, former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni has been appointed as its Goodwill Ambassador. The five-day international road cycling race will be held in Pune from January 19 to 23, 2026, marking a milestone for Indian sports beyond cricket.

Why in News?

Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the Pune Grand Tour 2026, India’s first UCI-recognised multi-stage professional road cycling race.

What is the Pune Grand Tour 2026?

• The Pune Grand Tour 2026 will be India’s first-ever Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 2.2 category Continental Road Cycling Race for men.
• The event places India on the official global cycling calendar of the Union Cycliste Internationale. Conducted over five stages, the race will cover a total distance of 437 kilometres, testing endurance, strategy, and technical skill at an international level.

Route and Terrain: A True Endurance Test

• The race route spans across Maharashtra’s Deccan Plateau and the Sahyadri Range, featuring sharp turns, varied terrain and significant elevation changes.
• Cyclists will navigate challenging climbs and fast descents, making the course comparable to demanding international continental races.
• The design of the route reflects India’s geographical diversity and aims to showcase its potential as a host for elite endurance sports.

Global Participation and Competitive Field

• The Pune Grand Tour 2026 will witness participation from 171 riders representing 29 professional teams from 35 countries, spanning five continents.
• The competitive field will be led by Spain’s Burgos Burpellet BH, ranked 27th in global UCI team rankings.
• Teams such as China’s Li Ning Star and Malaysia’s Terengganu Cycling Team will also compete, ensuring strong international competition and high racing standards.

Role of MS Dhoni and His Significance

• MS Dhoni’s appointment as Goodwill Ambassador aligns well with the demands of professional cycling.
• Known for his discipline, fitness focus, leadership, and mental resilience, Dhoni brings credibility and visibility to the event.
• His association is expected to inspire young athletes, promote cycling as a professional sport in India, and attract public and corporate attention towards non-traditional sports disciplines.

Indian Representation and Local Engagement

• India’s challenge will be led by experienced cyclist Naveen John, representing the Indian National Team.
• Host nation India will field 12 riders, including an Indian Development Team, providing valuable exposure to domestic talent.
• The race will pass through nine talukas and over 150 villages, blending elite sport with cultural heritage, rural outreach, and tourism promotion across the region.

Organisation and Institutional Support

• The event is being organized by the Pune District Administration under the guidance of the Cycling Federation of India and supported by the Government of Maharashtra.
• One of the broader objectives of the event is to revive Pune’s identity as India’s ‘Cycle Capital’, while positioning the city as a hub for international sporting events.

About UCI Continental Races

• UCI Continental category races serve as the entry point for nations aiming to develop professional cycling.
• They help countries build competitive teams, attract sponsorship, and integrate into the global cycling circuit.
• Hosting a UCI 2.2 race places India among recognised cycling destinations worldwide.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is India’s first cycling event recognized under which category?

A. UCI World Tour
B. UCI ProSeries
C. UCI 2.2 Continental Road Race
D. Asian Cycling Tour