Benin is setting its sights on becoming a leading force in African road cycling, carving a path in a region where football has long held the spotlight.
With a growing, youthful population and increasing government and federation support, the country is building a new identity on two wheels.
The transformation is being led by the Benin Cycling Federation, which has been working tirelessly to develop talent and create a thriving local scene. The annual Tour du Benin, now in its 20th year, has become a major fixture on the UCI Africa Tour calendar. Held every April, it attracts riders from across the continent and serves as a springboard for Benin’s own athletes to compete at higher levels.
Cycling has existed in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast, but Benin is quickly becoming the region’s standout story. The country’s federation, under the leadership of Romauld Hazoume, has introduced initiatives to ensure equal prize money and equipment for men and women, setting a new standard for inclusivity and fairness in African sports.
To support the growing ambition, Benin has invested in training programs and infrastructure. The hiring of Adrien Niyonshuti, a two-time Olympian from Rwanda, as head coach marked a turning point. In his three years with the team, he has helped riders improve their tactics, fitness, and competitive edge. According to Niyonshuti, the difference in the athletes’ preparation and mindset is clear, with many now capable of performing at international levels.
The results of this shift are beginning to show. The country is preparing to make a strong impression at two major upcoming events—the UCI Road World Championships in Rwanda and the Youth Olympic Games in Senegal. These platforms offer a chance for Benin to demonstrate the progress made and gain international exposure.
One of Benin’s rising stars is 18-year-old Georgette Vignonfodo, who represented the country in the junior road race at the 2023 World Championships in Zurich. Her performance caught the attention of the UCI, which invited her to a development camp in Europe. Once focused only on winning national races, Vignonfodo now dreams of a professional career. She sees herself not only as an athlete but as a role model for other young women in a sport that remains male-dominated.
Benin’s journey into the cycling spotlight is fueled by determination, vision, and a deep love for the sport. As riders train harder, infrastructure improves, and local competitions grow in prestige, the country’s dream of becoming a cycling powerhouse in Africa seems more realistic with every pedal stroke.