MS Dhoni Becomes Goodwill Ambassador for Pune Grand Tour 2026

MS Dhoni Named Goodwill Ambassador for Pune Grand Tour 2026, Boosting India’s Cycling Push

Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the Pune Grand Tour 2026 , lending star power and national attention to India’s first major step into the global professional road cycling circuit. The five-day international race will be held in Pune from January 19 to 23 , placing Maharashtra and India firmly on the world cycling calendar.

India’s Entry into Elite Global Cycling

The Pune Grand Tour 2026 will be India’s first Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI)–recognised multi-stage road cycling race in the UCI 2.2 Continental category . Designed to meet international standards, the event represents a breakthrough moment for Indian cycling, which has long sought structured exposure on the global professional circuit.

Spread across five stages and 437 kilometres , the race route cuts through the Deccan Plateau and Sahyadri ranges , featuring steep climbs, sharp curves, and varied terrain. These conditions are expected to test riders’ endurance, race strategy, and technical skills, aligning the competition with international road racing norms.

Strong International Line-Up

The event will see participation from 171 cyclists representing 29 professional teams across 35 countries , spanning five continents. Among the top contenders are Spain’s Burgos Burpellet BH , currently ranked within the top 30 in global UCI standings, along with strong Asian teams such as Li Ning Star (China) and Terengganu Cycling Team (Malaysia) .

This diverse and competitive field is expected to raise performance benchmarks and offer Indian riders valuable exposure to elite racing conditions.

Dhoni’s Role and Symbolic Value

Known for his discipline, fitness ethic, and calm leadership, Dhoni’s association resonates strongly with the demands of endurance sports like cycling. As Goodwill Ambassador, he is expected to enhance the event’s global visibility, attract youth interest, and reinforce cycling as a viable professional sport in India.

Dhoni has described the Pune Grand Tour as an important milestone, expressing hope that it will inspire young athletes and help build a stronger sporting culture beyond mainstream disciplines.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• Pune Grand Tour 2026 is India’s first UCI 2.2 Continental Road Cycling Race .

• The race covers 437 km over five stages in Maharashtra.

• Cyclists from 35 countries and 29 professional teams will participate.

• MS Dhoni is the Goodwill Ambassador for the event.

Indian Participation and Regional Impact

India’s campaign will be led by national champion Naveen John , heading the Indian National Team. The host nation will field 12 riders , including an Indian Development Team, providing emerging cyclists exposure to high-level competition.

Organised by the Pune District Administration under the Cycling Federation of India and the Government of Maharashtra , the race will pass through nine talukas and more