Jaipur, December 20, 2025:
Marking the dawn of a new era in Indian professional cycling, the prestigious and heritage-inspired Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026 Trophy was ceremoniously unveiled in Jaipur on Friday. The grand event took place in the distinguished presence of Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari and Jitendra Dudi (IAS), Collector of Pune District, the host city of the international road race.
As part of the national trophy tour, the arrival of the trophy in the Pink City symbolized a significant milestone, blending India’s rich cultural heritage with its growing capacity to host world-class sporting events.
A Trophy Rooted in Heritage and Craftsmanship
The trophy has been exquisitely crafted by the renowned Tambat Ali artisan community of Pune, drawing inspiration from eight historic forts of the Pune region and the glorious legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This unique creation has generated immense enthusiasm among cycling fans, the sporting fraternity, and local communities, while also highlighting Jaipur’s role in promoting national-level sports initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari said,
“It is encouraging to see India embracing new sports and moving confidently towards hosting major international sporting events. The Pune Grand Tour 2026, being India’s first UCI-classified cycling race, will take professional cycling in the country to new heights.”
Jitendra Dudi (IAS), Collector of Pune District and Race Director, Pune Grand Tour, stated,
“The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is the result of six months of focused and goal-driven efforts. Although the UCI 2.2 category is the entry level of international road cycling, our vision is to make India capable of hosting UCI Pro-level races in the future, on the lines of the Tour de France.”
What is the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour?
India’s First UCI 2.2 Race:
Recognized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the Pune Grand Tour is India’s first international road cycling race under the UCI 2.2 category.
A Blend of Culture and Sport:
Spread across four stages covering 437 kilometers, the race will pass through forts, hills, and scenic rural landscapes, showcasing Pune district’s cultural richness and natural beauty.
Tradition-Inspired Trophy:
Crafted by the Tambat Ali artisans, the trophy symbolizes the eight historic forts of the region and the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Gateway to Global Cycling:
The event aims to inspire Indian youth and position India as an emerging force in global sports.
Significance for Jaipur and India
Symbol of National Pride:
The trophy’s arrival in Jaipur reflects India’s collective efforts to build a strong sports ecosystem.
Boost to Sports Tourism:
The event will promote adventure and sports tourism while showcasing the historical and natural splendor of host regions on a global platform.
Future Olympians:
The Pune Grand Tour has the potential to evolve into an Olympic qualifying event, offering Indian cyclists a pathway to international excellence.
A Trophy That Tells a Story
Some creations are more than physical forms — they carry emotion, history, and inspiration. The Pune Grand Tour Trophy stands as a powerful symbol of perseverance and legacy.
Inspired by the eight forts along the race route, the trophy reflects courage, strategy, and the enduring spirit of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Its eight-segment, eight-faced design represents Pune’s cultural identity.
At its center lies a rotating hollow structure, evoking the essence of a velodrome — a space where cyclists are shaped by discipline, speed, and relentless practice.
Crafted entirely from copper, the 480 mm tall trophy honors generations of Tambat Ali artisans. Every hammer mark etched into its surface mirrors the rhythm, resilience, and determination of a cyclist pushing forward despite exhaustion. The trophy ultimately stands as a monument to endurance, continuity, and excellence.