Overview

• Remco Evenepoel dominated the individual time trial, finishing 2:37 ahead of defending road champion Tadej Pogacar, who looks for redemption on Sunday’s 267 km course with 5,475 meters of climbing at altitude and on cobbles.
• The women race Saturday over 166 km with 3,350 meters of climbing, where Pauline Ferrand-Prévôt is a leading favorite and Germany’s Liane Lippert targets a medal after skipping the mixed relay midweek but declaring herself ready.
• Athletes report challenging acclimation to Kigali’s heat and elevation, while German riders say road quality and training conditions have been better than expected.
• Teams and media cite steep costs linked to official hotel bookings and describe security checks that are stricter than at many major events.
• Large, enthusiastic crowds and a new UCI World Cycling Centre in Rwanda highlight the continent’s first Worlds, even as debates continue over human rights, long-term legacy, and a government push to attract a future Formula 1 race.