Pune Grand Challenge Tour To Place City On Global Tourism And Sports Map: CM Fadnavis
Pune Grand Challenge Tour To Place City On Global Tourism And Sports Map: CM Fadnavis
Mumbai, July 3, 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the upcoming Pune Grand Challenge Tour, an annual international-level cycling competition, will position Pune as a prominent hub for tourism and global sporting events. The initiative, jointly organized by the Pune District Administration and Cycling Federation of India (CFI) with state government support, aims to enhance Maharashtra’s tourism industry on the global stage.
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Pune’s District Collector and CFI at Vidhan Bhavan, CM Fadnavis said, “This prestigious event will showcase Pune as a major tourism and sporting destination in the coming years. The Pune Grand Challenge Tour is set to become one of the world’s most sought-after cycling events within the next three to four years.”
The signing ceremony was attended by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Higher Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, Sports Minister Dattatray Bharne, Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar, and CFI officials, including President Pankaj Singh.
Highlighting Pune’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty, CM Fadnavis emphasized how the event will attract global investments and promote sustainable development in rural areas. He added, “This initiative will not only encourage eco-friendly lifestyles but also provide opportunities in adventure sports, boost the local economy, and create jobs.”
The competition, awaiting recognition from Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), Switzerland, is expected to qualify as an Olympic qualifying event for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after approval.
Deputy CM Pawar noted, “Pune has long been recognized as the city of cycling, and this event will further strengthen that identity.”
The cycling tour will cover Sahyadri mountains, forts, reservoirs, and unexplored rural areas, promoting adventure tourism and environmental awareness while firmly placing Pune on the global sports calendar.
