Abuja Festival to Qualify Cyclists for 2027 Championships

The 2026 Abuja Chaingang Mountain Bike Festival will take place on November 21 and 22 at the Sunrise Hills Mountain Bike Course in Asokoro, Abuja. This festival has been designated as a national qualifying competition for the 2027 UCI Cycling World Championships in France.

Olatunji Olanrewaju, chairman of the Local Organising Committee, announced this at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. The Cycling Federation of Nigeria (CFN) is partnering in this event, which aims to enhance Nigeria's representation in mountain biking.

CFN Technical Director Bashir Mohammed stated that the competition will qualify male and female cyclists for the Cross-Country Short Track and Cross-Country Olympic events at the 2027 championships. The course, approximately 4.5 kilometers long, includes steep climbs and rocky descents, adhering to UCI guidelines.

CFN Secretary-General Joel Akinluwa confirmed that the competition will be officiated according to UCI rules. Organizers expect at least 150 participants, and the festival will also feature a children's race, trail running, and other activities.