Hilma Nalupe
Namibia is set to make history at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda, with a junior team participating on the world stage for the very first time.
The event, which started yesterday and ends on 27 September, is a milestone for Namibian cycling, as it coincides with the first-ever World Championships to be hosted on African soil.
Representing the country are Delsia van Vuuren and Rosemarie Theil in the Women Junior category, Monique du Plessis in the Women U/23 category and Roger Surén and Marco Thiel in the Men Junior category.
The riders will compete in both the Individual Road Race and Individual Time Trial events, with the championships also serving as a qualifier for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
Namibian Cycling Federation president Tauko Shilongo said the occasion marks an important breakthrough for the country.
“This is not only the first time the World Championships are being held on African soil, but also the first time that Namibia is participating and with a junior team. This puts the country on the world map of cycling,” he said.
Among the rising stars is Roger Surén, who recently impressed at the XCO World Championships, where he secured a silver medal. His experience, alongside the talent of the other riders, has raised hopes for a strong showing in Kigali.
Shilongo stressed that while the expectations are realistic, the federation remains optimistic.
“Our expectation is to compete and qualify, but we don’t want to put too much pressure on the team. This is their first time participating. Even a top 20 finish will be a great achievement,” he said.
The Namibian Cycling Federation has supported the team financially, provided kit and ensured a national coach accompanies the delegation.
Additional backing from corporate Namibia has further boosted the riders’ preparation.