Overview
- Maharashtra leaders Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar unveiled the logo, jersey and 'Indu' the Indian giant squirrel mascot, signaling strong government backing.
- The race is organized by the Pune District Administration, Maharashtra’s Ministry for Sports and Youth Welfare and the Cycling Federation of India, with Bajaj Group as title sponsor and Serum Institute as co-sponsor.
- Four stages totaling about 437 km will traverse Pune district’s urban, hilly and rural terrain, including the cities of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
- Organisers project participation from about 25 countries with up to 186 riders, and a national-level race on December 28 will serve as an operational dry run.
- Authorities announced Rs 422 crore for road and infrastructure upgrades from government bodies, plus Rs 35 crore committed by current sponsors, and the event will award UCI points relevant to LA 2028 qualification.