Speaking at the gala dinner in Kigali, Kagame thanked UCI President David Lappartient, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, and cycling fans worldwide for supporting the championship.
'Today, we stand here because the leadership at UCI put their trust in our country and our people to provide you with the best possible experience,' Kagame said.
'Rwanda is proud to be contributing to such an important moment in cycling history, and we are happy to be sharing it with you all as one team.'
The President described the week-long championships as a source of inspiration for Africa's youth.
'The chants, the crowds, and the smiles are a true testament to the unifying power of sports,' he said. 'For our young and talented people, this is an inspiration for them to follow their own dreams with a spirit of sacrifice and endurance, like true champions.'
Kagame stressed that investing in sports on the continent goes hand in hand with creating opportunities for the next generation.
'It all comes down to giving everyone a fair chance, not out of sympathy, but because everyone has something good to give back and because the sport is stronger for it,' he said.
UCI President David Lappartient, in his remarks, hailed Rwanda's successful staging of the first Road World Championships ever held in Africa.
'This week in Kigali has not just met our expectations. It has, of course, done more than that. It has taken our breath away,' Lappartient said.
'The cycling family has fallen in love with your country, Your Excellency â€" in love with its countryside, in love with its people, in love with its beauty, in love with its vitality.'
Lappartient highlighted the historic nature of Kigali 2025, which included dedicated women's under-23 races for the first time and the crowning of 12 world champions so far.
He presented Kagame with a framed rainbow jersey and the prestigious UCI Order, the federation's highest distinction, in recognition of his role in advancing cycling and supporting the championships.
Both leaders paid tribute to organisers, the Rwandan Cycling Federation, and the volunteers who ensured the success of the event.
'They are always ready with a big smile and assistance,' Lappartient noted, to applause.
The 2025 UCI Road World Championships conclude on Sunday with the men's elite road race, a highly anticipated finale that will feature some of the sport's top riders after an unforgettable week in Kigali.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-lauds-uci-s-trust-in-rwanda-at-2025-gala-dinner
