The International City Mountain Bike Race will take place in Addis Ababa in the coming May 3, 2026.  

Named the “City Mountain bike Eliminator Pro League,” the race is part of the international competition calendar of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and holds official recognition.

The Ethiopian Cycling Federation confirmed that this is the first time such a race will be held in Africa. The event will take place around the Piazza Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.

It will feature top international riders and mark the main event in which Ethiopian cyclists will also participate. Around 60 to 80 elite cyclists from 24 European and 10 African countries are expected to compete.

For Ethiopia, the race represents the second stop on the annual UCI City Mountain Bike calendar, following Barcelona. Elite male and female riders will compete in time trials, semifinals, and final races.

The competition will be broadcast live on international TV, with over 20 million viewers expected.

A preliminary open race will be held on May 3, 2026, allowing Ethiopian riders to participate, including amateur, children’s, and timed challenge events.

According to the Ethiopian Cycling Federation, the race offers significant benefits for Ethiopian sports, not only promoting the country internationally but also demonstrating its capacity to host world-class competitions.

Additionally, it gives Ethiopian athletes the opportunity to compete with global stars, gain exposure, and prepare for international competitions, boosting sports tourism and the country’s international sports profile.