Despite tensions, Belgium will participate in Cycling World Championships in Rwanda
The Belgian Cycling Federation has confirmed its participation in the upcoming World Cycling Championships in Rwanda. Due to diplomatic tensions, it was long unclear if Belgian cyclists would participate.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a neighbouring country of Rwanda, an armed conflict has been ongoing for some time. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group has occupied Congolese territory, resulting in the deaths of thousands of people.
The conflict has also caused diplomatic tensions between Belgium and Rwanda. Belgium has been one of the Western countries leading the call for sanctions to be imposed on Rwanda, resulting in the severing of all diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Safety assurances
One consequence of the diplomatic tensions was the impact on Belgium's participation in the UCI Cycling World Championships. The country's national cycling organisation, Belgian Cycling, was unsure for a long time about participating, questioning the safety of its cyclists.
However, following consultations with the Belgian government and the International Cycling Union (UCI), Belgian Cycling announced on Tuesday that it had decided to participate in all events.
"We have received assurances from the FPS Foreign Affairs and the UCI that we are welcome in Rwanda and that we will be able to participate under the best conditions," said Clauwaert.
No obligation
She added that no cyclist is obliged to travel to Rwanda. "Of course, all riders are free to refuse selection on personal grounds, such as ethical reasons. But as a federation, it is important that the focus is now on the sport."
This means that Remco Evenepoel will be able to defend his men's world championship time trial title. Meanwhile, among the women, Lotte Kopecky will be aiming to secure her third rainbow jersey on the road. The event will take place between 20 and 29 September.
2024's Tour of Rwanda. PHOTO © Guillem Sartorio / AFP
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