Overview
- Racing begins Jan 19 with a prologue in central Pune after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the event and authorities ordered road closures and a one-day school holiday.
- The UCI 2.2 race covers 437 km across a prologue and four stages on roads upgraded to international standards in rapid time, officials said.
- Morocco’s Sidi Ali Unlocks Sports Team withdrew, setting the field at 164 riders from 28 teams across 35 countries, compared with earlier tallies of 171 riders and 29 teams.
- India enters a 12‑rider home contingent split between the national team and a development squad for its largest presence at a UCI road race.
- Results will award UCI ranking points that contribute to qualification pathways for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.