The 2025 Tour du Ghana International Cycling Championship has received a major boost following the formal endorsement of President John Dramani Mahama, who will personally grace the grand finale on November 23 to crown the champions of the 12-day continental showpiece.

The much-anticipated competition pedals off tomorrow with an opening ceremony and a 3.5 km prologue from Osu Castle to the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, setting the stage for a thrilling journey that will test endurance, teamwork and national pride.

The official flag-off will be performed by the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, with the support of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) President, Richard Akpokavie.

From Accra, the peloton will race through the Volta and Eastern regions before returning to Ablekuma, Accra, on November 23, where President Mahama will be waiting at the finish line to present prizes to the winners.

Presidential backing

President Mahama’s endorsement was formally conveyed through a letter presented by the Minister of Sports and Recreation to a delegation from the Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF), led by GOC President Richard Akpokavie, during a meeting at the ministry on Wednesday.

In a solidarity message, the President lauded the GCF for its bold initiative in hosting such a high-profile international event, describing it as a powerful platform to project Ghana’s beauty and resilience to the world.

“Cycling tourism through the Black Star Experience opens new pathways for the world to discover Ghana — its people, culture and breathtaking landscapes. As cyclists journey across our nation, they carry with them the spirit of adventure and the pride of the Black Star,” President Mahama declared.

This year’s edition goes beyond cycling. On the vibrant theme, “The Black Star Experience”, the Tour du Ghana seeks to merge sport, culture and tourism, positioning Ghana as Africa’s cycling hub, while showcasing its rich heritage and scenic diversity.

The high-octane festival of endurance and culture will feature 172 cyclists from 12 international clubs, representing eight countries across five continents, alongside 36 race officials.

Over eight demanding stages across four regions, riders will traverse a stunning landscape — from the lush greenery of the Volta Region to the historical heartlands of the Eastern Region and the urban energy of Accra.

Support for the event has been overwhelming. Traditional authorities, along the route, have pledged their backing, with the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, offering to host the tour for five days in Ho, while the Akwamuhene, Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, will welcome riders to Akwamufie with a royal reception.

Corporate Ghana has also rallied behind the championship. Dot.Ateliers, the Accra-based artist residency and creative hub, headlines as the official sponsor, with MTN, Stanbic Bank, and MDK Ghana leading a strong lineup of supporting partners for what promises to be a spectacular 12-day celebration of cycling, culture and national pride.