MS Dhoni Named Goodwill Ambassador for Pune Grand Tour 2026

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Former India cricket captain MS Dhoni has taken on the role of Goodwill Ambassador for the Pune Grand Tour 2026, a move that highlights India’s push to establish itself within the global professional cycling ecosystem. The international road race will be staged in Pune over five days, from January 19 to 23, bringing worldwide attention to the city as a new destination for elite cycling.

A historic debut on the UCI calendar

The Pune Grand Tour will mark India’s first appearance on the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) calendar as a men’s multi-stage road event under the 2.2 Continental classification. The race will be conducted across five stages, covering a total distance of 437 kilometres. Riders will navigate a physically and technically demanding course that cuts through the Deccan Plateau and the Sahyadri hills, featuring steep gradients, narrow winding roads and varied terrain that reward both stamina and race strategy.

Strong global representation

The competition is set to feature 171 cyclists from 29 professional teams, with participants representing 35 nations across five continents. Among the leading teams is Spain’s Burgos Burpellet BH, currently ranked 27th globally by the UCI. Teams from Asia, including China’s Li Ning Star and Malaysia’s Terengganu Cycling Team, will also line up, adding depth and international credibility to the field.

Dhoni’s presence and India’s broader vision

Dhoni’s association with the event is expected to significantly boost its profile. Widely respected for his emphasis on physical fitness, discipline and mental strength, his involvement aligns closely with the core demands of high-performance cycling. In his role as Goodwill Ambassador, Dhoni aims to draw attention to cycling as a serious professional sport in India and inspire younger athletes to consider it as a career option. He has welcomed the initiative, calling it a positive step for the sport’s growth in the country.

India’s challenge will be anchored by experienced cyclist Naveen John, who will lead the Indian National Team. The host nation will field 12 riders in total, including members of an Indian Development Team. The event is being organised by the Pune District Administration in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India and the Government of Maharashtra. The race route will pass through nine talukas and more than 150 villages, blending international sport with regional landscapes and rural outreach.

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