New Delhi, Nov 28 : The Cycling Federation of India (CFI) has announced selection trials for Indian menâ??s elite riders, with an aim to field two teams, namely â??India Aâ?? and â??India Bâ??, for the forthcoming Pune Grand Tour â?? Indiaâ??s first UCI 2.2 category Road Race from January 19-23, 2026.

The National Road Cycling Championship-cum-selection trial is scheduled from December 2-6, 2025, at Sambalpur, Odisha. The shortlisted athletes will further be evaluated through a National Road Race in Pune on December 28.

The presence of two Indian teams - 'India Aâ?? and â??India Bâ?? - will provide a broader platform for emerging and seasoned cyclists alike to demonstrate their prowess on a national and international stage.

The ambitious Pune Grand Tour 2026 is Indiaâ??s flagship event aimed to earn Pune and Indiaâ??s permanent window in the Union Cycliste Internationaleâ??s (UCI) global calendar. The inaugural edition will attract elite international cyclists, promising fierce competition and world-class sporting action.

The Tour will feature four stages, 437-km challenging routes that will wind through the scenic landscapes of the Pune district, making it one of the most awaited cycling competitions in the country.

Speaking on the upcoming selection trial, Maninder Pal Singh, General Secretary, Cycling Federation of India, said, â??The National Championship-cum-selection trial is a crucial step towards assembling our strongest line-ups for the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour 2026. The introduction of two teams, India A and India B, reflects our focus on nurturing a broader pool of talent and elevating the standard of Indian cycling.â??

Pune Grand Tour 2026 is linked to qualification for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics, allowing international participants to garner critical race-points through a multi-stage, multi-day road race.

/IANS