The World Cycling Association (UCI) made history recently as it hosted its 194th Congress for the very first time on the African continent. The vibrant capital city of Kigali, Rwanda, welcomed representatives from an impressive 136 countries, showcasing a tremendous spirit of cooperation and unity among global cycling enthusiasts. Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame, kicked off the proceedings with an inspiring opening speech that set the tone for the discussions ahead.
Among the highlights of the congress was the election of Emin Müftüoğlu, who successfully secured his position on the UCI Board of Directors, garnering 37 votes from a talented pool of nine European candidates. This marks his second term in this vital role, where he will lend his expertise to elevate cycling on the global stage. Having previously served from 2013 to 2016, including a leadership role as Chairman of the World Mountain Bike Commission, Müftüoğlu’s experience promises to be invaluable.
At the congress, he was surrounded by a strong delegation from Turkey, which included notable figures such as Cengiz from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Supervisory Board Member Hayri Cavusoglu, and other key representatives from the Turkish Cycling Federation. Their united front underscores the importance of collaboration in achieving shared goals within the cycling community.
In his post-election comments, Müftüoğlu expressed pride not just in securing his position, but also in the progress of Turkish cycling on an international platform. He stated, “Today, this is not just about my role; it’s a reflection of Turkey and our commitment to promoting cycling. By participating once more in the UCI Board of Directors, we aim to strengthen our country’s global cycling vision.”
The results of the congress also included notable elections across various continental bicycle confederations. For instance, Khireddine Barbari from Algeria was elected to represent the African Bicycle Confederation (CAC), adding another layer of representation from the continent. This demonstrates Africa’s growing influence in the global sports arena and highlights the diverse leadership that will shape the future of cycling.
With the UCI Congress taking place in Rwanda, it not only shines a light on cycling but also promotes the nation’s reputation as a hub for international events. This congress sets the stage for strategic decisions that will impact cycling worldwide, ensuring that the sport continues to expand and flourish in all corners of the globe.
As we look ahead, the future of cycling seems brighter than ever, with diverse voices coming together to shape its course. This event signifies a new chapter in global cycling governance, one that firmly includes Africa in the conversation.
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