Bajaj Pune Grand Tour Creates History in International Cycling

Pune |
The prestigious Bajaj Pune Grand Tour–2026 concluded successfully today, marking a historic milestone in international cycling. Exceptional planning, world-class infrastructure, disciplined execution, and overwhelming public participation from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad made the event an unforgettable experience for sports enthusiasts across the globe.

The race was live broadcast across India and the Indian subcontinent on Star Sports and Jio Hotstar, while international viewers in over 70 countries across Europe and the world watched the event on HBO Max and Discovery Plus. Through this global telecast, audiences witnessed Pune district’s tourism potential, wide and well-planned roads, historic landmarks, rich cultural heritage, Marathi theatre and music traditions, sports culture, eco-friendly initiatives, and modern infrastructure.

Grand Finale Route Captures the Soul of Pune

The final stage of the race began at Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Mahalunge–Balewadi, and passed through iconic city locations including Pashan, NCL Ground, Savitribai Phule Pune University Chowk, Rajiv Gandhi Bridge, Rakshak Chowk, Kalewadi, Dange Chowk, Sant Tukaram Maharaj Bridge, Bhakti–Shakti Chowk, Triveni Nagar, PCNTDA, Spine Road, Nal Stop, FC Road, JM Road, Shaniwar Wada, before culminating at Balgandharva Rangmandir.

Record-Breaking Public Participation

Citizens from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad lined the 99.15-kilometre route, cheering international cyclists with immense enthusiasm. An estimated 14 lakh spectators witnessed the race in person—setting a new global benchmark for public participation in an international cycling event.

Global Spotlight on Pune’s Culture and Heritage

The beautification of junctions, cleanliness drives, traffic management, green landscaping, LED screens, cultural performances, and enthusiastic public response added vibrancy to the event. International commentators highlighted Pune’s history, cultural identity, and modern progress during the live telecast.

Prominent landmarks such as Shaniwar Wada, Lal Mahal, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Bal Gandharva Theatre, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, and Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex were showcased, emphasizing the seamless blend of heritage and modernity.

Flawless Coordination and Safety Arrangements

International cyclists, technical officials, trainers, and sports enthusiasts arrived in large numbers for the event. The police department, traffic authorities, health services, volunteers, and various government agencies worked in close coordination to ensure safety and smooth conduct. The event concluded without any untoward incident, earning praise from officials of international cycling federations.

Boost to Sports Tourism and City Branding

The Pune Grand Tour–2026 has significantly strengthened Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad’s international identity. It has provided a major boost to sports tourism, local economy, cultural promotion, and global city branding. Millions of viewers worldwide experienced Pune’s grandeur through the event, reinforcing its status as a global sports and cultural destination.