Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, erupted in cheers and applause from cycling fans drawn from all corners of the world, as 18-year-old Italian Finn Lorenzo claimed the gold medal in the men’s under-23 road race at the ongoing UCI Road World Championships.
It was a contest of strength, resilience, and emotion, bringing together young riders from across the globe. Over a demanding 164.6-kilometer course through the hilly streets of Kigali, Lorenzo proved he was no ordinary rider. He crossed the finish line in 3 hours, 57 minutes, and 27 seconds, claiming gold in front of crowds lining the roads and millions more watching on screens worldwide.
In the final hour of the race, fans broke into chants and dance, while others stood anxiously at the roadside, eager to witness the young Italian cross first. Italian flags waved across the streets, but Rwandans too cheered passionately, giving him the morale to push harder.
Huber Jan of Switzerland, one of the pre-race favorites thanks to his experience, secured silver but finished 31 seconds behind Lorenzo. Schrettl Marco of Austria took the bronze medal after trailing by one minute and 13 second.
📰 Also Read This:
This was not Lorenzo’s first taste of global success. In 2024, he had already claimed the junior men’s title at the World Championships in Zurich, Switzerland. In Kigali, he once again stamped his authority, this time as the youngest competitor in the under-23 category.
“This is a dream come true for me,” Lorenzo told reporters after stepping onto the podium. “Kigali will forever remain in my heart. The fans gave me unbelievable support. Winning here shows that my journey in cycling is moving in the right direction.”
Beyond the riders’ achievements, the 2025 World Championships are leaving Rwanda with a lasting legacy, showcasing its ability to host major international sporting events. Kigali’s steep climbs and technical descents provided a perfect battleground for endurance, strategy, and mental toughness.
Cycling enthusiasts agree that the 2025 edition will remain unforgettable, not only for Rwanda’s warm hospitality but also for the historic triumph of an 18-year-old prodigy, Finn Lorenzo, who etched his name in cycling history at such a young age.
