According to the organisers, as many as 171 cyclists from 35 countries across five continents will compete in the five-day race, making it the largest peloton ever assembled for a UCI 2.2 category event. Typically, such races permit a maximum of 125 riders, but special approval has been granted for expanded participation in Pune. Six Indian cyclists, selected on the basis of performances at the recent National Championships in Odisha, will be part of the field.
The Pune Grand Tour 2026 will cover a total distance of 437 kilometres, including a prologue and four competitive stages. Teams from leading cycling nations such as France, Great Britain, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, China and Thailand are scheduled to take part, underscoring the event’s international stature.
The race will begin with Stage 1, titled Mulshi–Maval Miles (91.8 km), a fast and technical route passing through Hinjewadi and nearby urban stretches. Stage 2, the Maratha Heritage Circuit (109.15 km), will test riders with demanding climbs around Purandar Fort, Sinhagad and Khadakwasla Lake. Stage 3, Western Ghats Gateway (137.07 km), is the longest and is expected to be a high-speed, tactical battle from Purandar to Baramati. The final leg, Pune Pride Loop (99.15 km), will wind through the city’s historic landmarks, including Shaniwar Wada, before concluding the tour.
The event has received logistical and administrative support from the Pune District Administration and the Maharashtra government. Pune Collector Jitendra Dudi said hosting the race is a matter of pride for both the city and the country. He noted that Pune is aiming to reclaim its identity as India’s “Cycle Capital” and draw inspiration from iconic global events such as the Tour de France.
Technical Director Pinaki Baisak described the scale of participation as unprecedented for a UCI 2.2 race. He said Pune’s diverse terrain, ranging from urban roads to challenging climbs, along with its infrastructure, made it an ideal host city.
Organisers believe the Pune Grand Tour could serve as a foundation for developing a long-term professional cycling circuit in India, offering domestic riders exposure to elite international competition and positioning Pune as a key destination on the Asian cycling calendar.
