Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo Showcases Cyclists from 68 Nations

The Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo celebrated its fourth edition as a leading event in the UAE sporting landscape, attracting over 1,000 cyclists from 68 countries to compete over a challenging 150-kilometre track.

With a total prize pool of AED2 million, the race united professional athletes, casual cyclists, and registered teams, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's emerging reputation in elite endurance sports.

Route Through Abu Dhabi’s Scenic Terrain

Beginning promptly at 7am from Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain, the race concluded at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, presenting a unique blend of intense competition and a taste of the UAE’s rich culture and heritage. The festival showcased a variety of activities, enhancing the atmosphere for both racers and spectators.

Cyclists were categorized based on skill level and speed, with the premiere wave featuring both professional female and male cyclists alongside registered teams, followed by various groups of amateurs.

International Competitors Triumph

Ukrainian cyclist Serhii Sydor of the Al Wathba Team clinched first place in the men's competition, finishing the 150km race in just 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 30 seconds. Dutch competitor Cornelis Vermeltfoort followed closely in second, while Russian Anton Popov secured third.

In the women's division, Dutch cyclist Nina Kessler earned the top spot with a time of 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 37 seconds. Meanwhile, Nora Jenčušová from Slovakia and Dutch racer Yona Vandamme completed the podium.

UAE Nationals Shine Bright

Local talent showcased impressive performances, too. In the UAE Nationals men's category, Abdulla Al Hammadi from Abu Dhabi Cycling Club took first place, clocking in at 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 33 seconds. Salem Al Shmeili of Dubai Police and Ahmed Al Mansoori secured second and third respectively.

For the UAE Nationals women's event, Marwa Salman of My Whoosh Team triumphed with a finish time of 3 hours, 31 minutes, and 14 seconds, followed by Noura Al Ghafli and Aisha Foulad.

Team Rankings

In the men's team classification, Dubai Police Team emerged victorious, followed by Shabab Al Ahli Dubai and Abu Dhabi Cycling Club. The women's team category similarly saw Dubai Police Team in the lead, with Dubai Residency Team and Astro Falcon Team taking second and third place respectively.

Support from Local Institutions

The event received formal backing from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the UAE Cycling Federation, and the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club, highlighting strong institutional support.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, remarked that the significant international participation for the fourth consecutive year underscores Abu Dhabi's dedication to promoting cycling in the UAE and the larger region.

Safety Measures and Engagement Activities

To ensure participant safety, the race was equipped with comprehensive safety measures, including dedicated medical personnel, emergency response teams, and technical support units positioned along the route for quick assistance.

This year's event featured the Race Village at Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, facilitating fan engagement activities, rider recovery areas, family-friendly spaces, and exhibitor booths to create an enriching experience for all.

Live coverage was provided by Abu Dhabi Sports Channel, featuring pre- and post-race insights, ground reporting, and full coverage of every race category and its results.

With heightened international interest, formidable competition, and exceptional community engagement, the Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo is solidifying its place on the worldwide cycling calendar.