- India has unveiled the world’s first franchise-based road cycling league — a bold step that positions the country as a pioneer in professional cycling and signals a new era for sports infrastructure. The Cycling League of India will feature eight city-based teams, international riders, and diverse race formats, aiming to inspire youth and put India firmly on the global cycling map
- The initiative builds on the momentum of recent events like the Pune Grand Tour, which became the world’s largest UCI 2.2 stage race, and the Fit India Sundays on Cycle movement.
- Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya unveils the logo of World’s first franchise based “Cycling League of India”
📌 League Structure
- Eight franchises representing different cities/regions.
- Each team will have 10 riders, including:
- 2 international cyclists to bring global competitiveness.
- 2 junior riders to nurture emerging Indian talent.
- Races will unfold in three phases, culminating in a grand finale.
- Formats include criterium races, team time trials, and mass start events — designed for both strategy and spectacle.
🌍 Why It Matters
- Global First: No other country has attempted a franchise-based road cycling league.
- Youth Inspiration: Aimed at encouraging young Indians to take up cycling as a serious sport.
- Economic & Cultural Impact: Expected to attract sponsors, tourism, and international attention.
- Health & Environment: Cycling promoted as a people-led solution to pollution and obesity.
📊 Cycling’s Rise in India
- Pune Grand Tour 2026: Drew 2.5 million spectators and generated ₹144 crore in PR value.
- Fit India Sundays on Cycle: Expanded from 5 locations in 2024 to over 10,000 locations weekly, with 10 lakh citizens regularly participating.
- Other events like the Statue of Unity Cyclothon and HCL Cyclothons have further boosted popularity.
🗣 Voices Behind the Vision
- Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya: “We are not just organising races, but creating a professional ecosystem that nurtures talent and aligns with our vision of a fit and vibrant India.”
- Ravneet Gill (CEO, New Horizon Alliance): “This league will be commercially sustainable, blending international expertise with Indian talent to leave a lasting legacy.”
⚡ The Road Ahead
2026 is shaping up as a turning point for Indian sports, with multiple professional leagues across disciplines. For cycling, this league could be the launchpad to:
- Higher-level UCI events (2.1 and pro-level).
- Greater opportunities for Indian riders to compete internationally.
- Establishing India as a global cycling hub.
✨ For your cycling news readers, this story isn’t just about a logo launch — it’s about India daring to lead the world in reinventing how cycling is played, watched, and celebrated.
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