Montreal Preparing to Host Cycling World Championships

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Montreal is set to host the UCI Road World Championships from September 21 to September 29, 2025, marking the first time the event will be held in Canada in over 50 years. The city’s preparation includes a 285-kilometer course featuring iconic landmarks such as the Mont Royal, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, and the Saint-Laurent Boulevard, according to La Presse. The event, organized by the International Cycling Union (UCI), will attract elite cyclists from over 100 nations, with competitions spanning road races, time trials, and team time trials.

The announcement was made by the Montreal 2025 organizing committee, which emphasized the city’s commitment to sustainability and accessibility. “Montreal’s unique urban landscape provides an exceptional setting for the world’s best cyclists,” said committee spokesperson Élise Gagnon. “We are working closely with the UCI and local authorities to ensure the event aligns with global standards while highlighting our city’s cultural and ecological values.”

The race route has been designed to showcase Montreal’s geographical diversity, with stages beginning in the Verdun district, crossing the Saint-Laurent River, and concluding in the Old Port. The men’s and women’s individual time trials will take place on September 25, while the men’s and women’s road races are scheduled for September 27 and 28, respectively. The UCI has confirmed that the course meets all technical requirements, including elevation gains and technical challenges suitable for professional cyclists.

Montreal’s bid to host the event was bolstered by its successful 2013 UCI Track Cycling World Championships and its reputation as a cycling-friendly city. The 2025 edition will also feature a “Cyclists for Tomorrow” initiative, aiming to promote youth participation through free public events and school programs. “This is a historic opportunity to inspire a new generation of athletes,” said Marc Légaré, president of the Quebec Cycling Association.

The economic impact of the event is expected to exceed CAD 200 million, according to a study by the Montreal Convention and Visitors Authority. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses have already begun preparing for the influx of visitors, with over 15,000 volunteers recruited to support event operations. Security measures will be coordinated by the Sûreté du Québec and the Montreal Police Department, with a focus on crowd management and traffic control.

Competitors from major cycling nations, including the Netherlands, Germany, and Colombia, have expressed enthusiasm about the route. “Montreal’s mix of urban and natural terrain offers a unique challenge,” said Dutch cyclist Anna van der Meer, a two-time world champion. “It’s a thrilling opportunity to test our skills in a city that values cycling as much as we do.”

The UCI Road World Championships have been held annually since 1921, with previous hosts including Doha (2022), Innsbruck (2021), and Aigle-Martigny (2019). Montreal’s selection follows a competitive bidding process, with officials citing the city’s infrastructure and climate as key factors. The event will coincide with Montreal’s 375th anniversary, further emphasizing its cultural significance.

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Preparation for the event has already begun, with construction crews upgrading road surfaces and installing temporary barriers along the race route. The city has also announced plans to enhance cycling infrastructure in the long term, including the expansion of bike lanes and the creation of a permanent cycling hub near the Saint-Laurent Boulevard.

Local media coverage will be provided by La Presse, RDS, and CTV Montreal, with live broadcasts available through the UCI’s official platform. Tickets for the event went on sale in July 2024, with prices ranging from CAD 20 to CAD 200, depending on the stage and location. Organizers have emphasized that a portion of the proceeds will be directed toward community sports programs.

The 2025 championships will also serve as a qualifier for the 2028 Olympic Games, with top performers earning automatic spots in the Los Angeles competition. This added significance has prompted increased media attention, with international outlets such as Cycling Weekly and VeloNews planning extensive coverage.

As the countdown begins, Montreal’s status as a global cycling destination continues to grow. The event not only highlights the city’s sporting ambitions but also reinforces its role as a leader in sustainable urban development. For cyclists and fans alike, the 2025 UCI Road World Championships promise to be a landmark moment in the sport’s history.