The Tour du Rwanda concluded on Sunday with Germany’s Moritz Kretschy securing overall victory after eight demanding stages across Rwanda. Kretschy topped the general classification after completing 997.8 kilometres in a cumulative time of 23 hours, 08 minutes and 48 seconds. Although the 23-year-old did not win an individual stage, he sealed the title through consistent finishes, strong positioning in the mountains, and disciplined teamwork from the NSN Development Team. He finished about two minutes ahead of compatriot Johannes Adamietz, who placed second overall.
Kretschy took control of the race after claiming the yellow jersey on Stage Four in Rubavu, then successfully defended it through the remaining stages as his team controlled the peloton. “We were the strongest team, and this was a real team effort,” he said after the finish. The final stage was won by Eritrean star Henok Mulubrhan, who outsprinted his rivals as NSN focused on protecting Kretschy’s overall lead rather than contesting the stage.
Rwanda’s Samuel Niyonkuru finished 16th overall, making him the best-placed local rider in the race. Widely regarded as one of Africa’s toughest and most prestigious cycling events, the Tour du Rwanda again showcased a mix of elite international talent and emerging regional riders, reinforcing its growing status on the global cycling calendar.
