Speaking at the event, Lappartient praised Rwanda for staging a championship that 'took our breath away,' describing it as an unforgettable milestone for the global cycling community.
'The cycling family has fallen in love with your country, Your Excellency, Rwanda, this week,' he said. 'In love with its countryside, in love with its people, in love with its beauty, in love with its vitality. These UCI World Championships are not over, but we can already declare them an immense success.'
The UCI President also noted the groundbreaking nature of the Kigali edition, highlighting that it was the first time the Road World Championships were held on the African continent, and the first time women in the under-23 category had their own dedicated races.
'Quite simply, we have never experienced an event like this before,' he said.
In a gesture of appreciation, Lappartient presented President Kagame with a framed rainbow jersey, the same awarded to world champions during the week, along with the UCI Order medal.
'This is the highest distinction awarded to people who make an outstanding impact on the sport of cycling,' he said. 'We will leave Rwanda with unforgettable memories, and we sincerely hope that you will also have unforgettable memories of the UCI World Championships.'
For his part, President Kagame welcomed guests, including His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, senior officials, and the wider cycling family.
He congratulated Lappartient on his recent election and thanked him for the honour bestowed upon him. 'So, for me, I won't necessarily have to participate in the competition. I have more or less already won,' Kagame joked, drawing applause.
The President emphasised the power of sport to unite and inspire, particularly among 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 added that investing in sport on the continent is part of investing in Africa's future. '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.
The evening closed on a celebratory note, with both leaders commending the tireless work of organisers, volunteers, and the Rwandan Cycling Federation in delivering what has already been hailed as one of the most memorable championships in UCI history.
The UCI Road World Championships conclude on Sunday with the highly anticipated men's elite road race, bringing together some of the world's best talent after an unforgettable week in sporting history.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/uci-awards-president-kagame-highest-cycling-distinction
