The highly anticipated L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France made its grand debut in the UAE this weekend, bringing together over 1,000 cycling enthusiasts, from hobby riders and amateurs to elite athletes, and recording the highest number of participants for the first edition of any amateur cycling event in the history of the UAE.
The main race, held on Sunday, February 2nd, saw hundreds of competitors set off from Dubai Design District (D3) on a thrilling 101 km route, navigating Dubai-Al Ain Road (E66) before a decisive push by Syrian national and UAE resident, Ibrahiem Alrefai, along Zayed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street (D54), delivered an exhilarating first place finish at Expo Village Park. In total, the event featured the highest number of international competitors to have participated in the first edition of an amateur cycling race in Dubai, including over 250 Emiratis.
After a fiercely contested battle, Ibrahiem Alrefai secured the first-ever L’Étape Dubai title in a time of 02:17:24, followed closely by Ivan Kormshchikov in an impressive effort, with Danil Konotop rounding out the podium. The competitive nature of the race saw riders put their endurance and strategy to the test, with an electric atmosphere pushing them towards the finish line.
Alrefai from Syria, Champion of L’Étape Dubai, said:
Winning the inaugural L’Étape Dubai is an incredible honour. The course was both challenging and rewarding, and the atmosphere was fantastic with all the new cyclists, whether they were professionals or trying cycling for the first time. It was a true test of endurance, and I couldn’t be prouder to stand on the podium as the first winner of L’Etape Dubai by Tour de France.
The women’s race was equally competitive, with Olha Shekel taking the top spot in 2 hours, 20 minutes, and 20 seconds. Ebtissam Zayed and Olivuja Balesisyte secured second and third places, respectively. Additionally, one of the youngest winners of the event, 15-year-old UAE resident Darcey Minton, claimed victory in the 50 km ride, a race supported by sponsor Škoda.
Dubai’s Growing Status as a Global Cycling Hub
The event received strong support from the Dubai Sports Council, reinforcing the city’s ambition to become a top-tier destination for international sporting events. His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, emphasized the significance of hosting L’Étape Dubai, noting that it not only showcased Dubai’s urban beauty but also highlighted its cycling-friendly environment. He pointed out that the route was designed to give participants a mix of cityscapes and natural beauty, passing through Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, known for its world-class cycling tracks and artificial lakes.
Hareb also praised Dubai’s leadership for investing in cycling infrastructure, which has positioned the city among the world’s leading cycling destinations. He highlighted that February is a particularly exciting month for cyclists, with Dubai hosting six major cycling events that attract thousands of participants of all ages and skill levels. With over 544 km of dedicated cycling tracks, the city has created a cycling-friendly environment that continues to draw international riders.
Škoda’s Commitment to Cycling and L’Étape Dubai
As the title sponsor, Škoda played a key role in the event’s success. Lukas Honzak, Managing Director of Škoda Middle East, reaffirmed the brand’s deep connection to cycling, noting that the event was an important milestone for them. He expressed pride in unveiling the new Škoda Kodiaq as the official race car, further strengthening the brand’s commitment to supporting cycling culture in the Middle East. He emphasized that the enthusiasm displayed by riders and fans highlighted the sport’s growing popularity in the region.
The excitement wasn’t limited to the race itself. On Saturday, February 1st, the event kicked off with a lively Race Village at Expo Village Park, where fans and families participated in interactive experiences. Visitors explored the Tour de France Museum, engaged with Škoda’s fan zones, and enjoyed special races such as the Family Ride and Kids’ Race.
A Bright Future for L’Étape Dubai
The event’s organizer, Jozef Pukalovic, reflected on the success of L’Étape Dubai, stating that it exceeded expectations in both competition and audience engagement. He expressed pride in delivering an authentic Tour de France experience and promised that future editions would be even bigger and better.
As the final cyclists crossed the finish line, L’Étape Dubai cemented its place as a landmark event in the UAE’s sporting calendar. More than just a race, it served as a celebration of endurance, community, and Dubai’s growing passion for cycling. With the city continuing to invest in world-class sporting initiatives, this event has laid a strong foundation for a thriving cycling culture, encouraging both experienced athletes and newcomers to take up the sport.
News Source: Dubai Sports Council
