2024 UCI Urban Cycling World Championships Set To Return To Abu Dhabi This December

The Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) is partnering with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) to host the 2024 UCI Urban Cycling World Championships. Scheduled for 17th to 21st December, this event will take place at Nation Towers in Abu Dhabi. It follows a successful 2022 edition that drew large crowds and showcased impressive cycling skills.

Abu Dhabi's commitment to cycling is evident with numerous events planned, including the 2024 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships on 26th October. The city will also host the UCI Mobility and Bike City Forum on 18th and 19th December, focusing on sustainable mobility and cycling's role in global development.

The UCI Urban Cycling World Championships will feature BMX Freestyle competitions in Park and Flatland categories for both men and women. Trials events include Women Elite, Men Elite 20’’, Men Elite 26’’, Men Junior 20’’, Men Junior 26’’, and mixed team categories. This free-to-attend event offers a family-friendly experience alongside the nearby Mother of the Nation Festival.

David Lappartient, UCI President, expressed enthusiasm about returning to Abu Dhabi after a successful event in 2022. He stated, "The city offers an ideal setting for the exciting urban disciplines of BMX Freestyle and trials, and with free entry at Nation Towers, the local community will have easy access to watch the world’s best in action."

Aref Al Awani, Secretary-General of ADSC, highlighted Abu Dhabi’s capability to host major international sports events. He said, "Hosting the 2024 UCI Urban Cycling World Championships reflects the confidence of international sports federations and organisations in Abu Dhabi’s ability to deliver and excel in organising major global sporting events for various sports."

The popularity of cycling has surged since the launch of Bike Abu Dhabi in 2021. This initiative supports cycling growth through mobility, health, leisure, and sport. The emirate now features over 300km of cycle tracks across locations like Al Hudayriyat Island and Yas Marina Circuit.

Historical Context and Upcoming Events

This year marks the seventh edition of the UCI Urban Cycling World Championships. Previous hosts include Chengdu in China from 2017 to 2019, Montpellier in France in 2021, Abu Dhabi in 2022, and Glasgow in Scotland in 2023.

Abu Dhabi is set to further establish itself as a key cycling hub by hosting future events such as the 2028 UCI Road World Championships and Gran Fondo World Championships, along with the 2029 UCI Track World Championships.

The development of cycling infrastructure has led to increased participation across various disciplines. While road and track cycling remain popular, BMX Freestyle has gained significant traction following previous championships hosted by Abu Dhabi.

With inputs from WAM