AlUla, Saudi Arabia – January 30, 2025 – A press conference was held yesterday at the AlFursan Equestrian Village in AlUla to kick off the highly anticipated fifth annual AlUla Tour 2025. This premier cycling event, organized by the Saudi Cycling Federation in collaboration with the Amaury Sport Organisation and the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), is set to run from January 28 to February 1, 2025. Under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport, the tour brings together some of the world’s best cyclists for a showcase of athleticism, competition, and the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla.
During the press conference, Abdulaziz Al-Shahrani, President of the Saudi Cycling Federation, spoke to the significance of the AlUla Tour, emphasizing that the event is a major milestone for the Kingdom’s growing presence in the global sports arena. He expressed how the tour serves as both an inspiration for Saudi citizens to aspire toward excellence in cycling and a platform for the country to elevate its competitive spirit in the international sporting community. Al-Shahrani also outlined the federation’s long-term vision to develop cycling as a mainstream sport in Saudi Arabia, with initiatives aimed at engaging all segments of society in cycling activities.
Ziad Alsuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, added that the AlUla Tour plays a crucial role in showcasing the region’s unique history and stunning natural beauty. Alsuhaibani noted that the event is not only a competitive sports gathering but also a powerful vehicle for tourism, as participants and spectators alike have the opportunity to experience AlUla's remarkable landmarks, including ancient archaeological sites and diverse desert landscapes. A key announcement during the press conference was the extension of the cycling route, which has been expanded from 45 to 68 kilometers. Alsuhaibani highlighted that further expansions are planned in the coming years, reflecting the growing importance of the event and AlUla's role as a destination for international sports competitions. Additionally, the RCU plans to establish new initiatives focused on youth engagement, including school-based cycling programs and children's races, aiming to cultivate the next generation of Saudi cycling talent.
Ali Al-Sheikh, the head of the Saudi national cycling team, expressed pride in the Kingdom's athletes and affirmed that all competitors are committed to demonstrating the strength and skill of Saudi cyclists on the world stage. Al-Sheikh praised the immense support from the involved partners and stakeholders, which has played an essential role in making the AlUla Tour a reality and contributing to the growth of cycling in the Kingdom.
Dutch cyclist Dylan Groenewegen, a member of Team Jayco AlUla, offered his perspective on the event, acknowledging the unique challenge posed by the AlUla course. Groenewegen, a seasoned competitor, pointed out that the AlUla terrain — characterized by rugged landscapes, sand, and wind — presents a distinctive test compared to other international race locations. He spoke to the strategic importance of adapting to these conditions, expressing hope for a strong performance from his team and a competitive bid for victory.
The AlUla Tour 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event, not only for the high level of competition it brings but also for the opportunity it provides to experience one of the world’s most stunning and historically rich destinations. The event is yet another testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering sports, tourism, and cultural exchange, while placing AlUla firmly on the map as a world-class venue for international sporting events.
