Pune: MEA Gives Initial Nod for Participation of 35 Nations in ‘Pune Grand Tour 2026’
Pune, 20th November 2025: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued an in-principle clearance allowing athletes and delegates from 35 countries to take part in the international cycling championship, Pune Grand Tour 2026. The event is slated to be hosted in Pune between January 19 and 23, 2026.
The tournament is being coordinated by the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) with logistical and administrative support from local authorities. The championship has already secured official sanction from the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the global governing body for cycling, and is listed on its annual competition calendar.
The nations permitted to participate span multiple regions across the world. These include India, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and several others such as Albania, Algeria, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Czech Republic, Estonia, Guam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates.
According to officials, the MEA’s letter of approval has been submitted to the Secretary General of the Cycling Federation of India, with the stipulation that all delegations must comply with visa procedures, formal invitations, and additional permissions required from various government bodies.
With this clearance, organisers anticipate a significant international turnout. The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is expected to offer Indian sports enthusiasts a rare chance to experience elite-level competitive cycling featuring athletes from around the globe.
