Addressing President Paul Kagame, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, and international delegates, Lappartient said the 2025 edition in Kigali had exceeded all expectations.
'This week in Kigali has not just met our expectations. It has, of course, done more than that. It has taken our breath away,' he said. 'In love with its countryside, in love with its people, in love with its beauty, in love with its vitality â€" we will never forget your country's welcome.'
The UCI President hailed the historic significance of this year's championships, the first to be hosted in Africa. He highlighted two milestones: the debut of dedicated women's under-23 races and the crowning of 12 world champions before Sunday's men's elite road race.
'Quite simply, we have never experienced an event like this before,' he said.
In recognition of Rwanda's role, Lappartient presented President Kagame with a framed rainbow jersey and the UCI Order, the federation's highest distinction.
'This is the highest award given to people who make an outstanding impact on the sport of cycling,' he said.
President Kagame, in his own remarks, welcomed the honour and congratulated Lappartient on his election as UCI President. He also acknowledged the warm presence of Prince Albert II of Monaco.
With humour, Kagame noted the symbolic value of the gift: 'So, for me, I won't necessarily have to participate in the competition. I have more or less already won.'
The President emphasised the unifying power of sport and its role in inspiring 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.'
He added that investment in sports across 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,' Kagame said.
As the evening drew to a close, both leaders praised the organisers, the Rwandan Cycling Federation, and hundreds of volunteers whose smiles and energy were credited for much of the event's success.
The 2025 UCI Road World Championships conclude on Sunday with the highly anticipated men's elite road race, set to feature some of the world's top riders in what promises to be a historic finale.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/uci-president-the-cycling-family-has-fallen-in-love-with-rwanda
