The opening day of the 2026 Tour du Rwanda was marked by tragedy on Sunday after an official race vehicle veered off the road and struck a group of spectators. The accident resulted in the deaths of two people and left six others injured.
The incident occurred in the Gaciro area during the first stage of the race, which ran from Rukomo to Rwamagana. According to witnesses, a vehicle from the race caravan left the roadway and hit the crowd watching from the roadside.
In an official statement, the organizers of the Tour du Rwanda confirmed the accident and expressed their deepest sympathy to the families of the victims.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the families and remain committed to public safety,” the statement read. The organizers confirmed that the injured were receiving medical care and that authorities were closely monitoring their condition.
The Rwanda National Police has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
Candy Basomingera, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, also expressed sorrow over the event. She urged everyone involved in the race to prioritize safety on the roads.
“This reminds us of the importance of being vigilant on the road as we drive and cheer on the riders,” Ms. Basomingera said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims, and we wish a quick recovery to those who have been injured.”
Despite the tragedy, the sporting event continued. Israeli cyclist Itamar Einhorn of the NSN Devo Team won the first stage, completing the 174 km course in 4 hours and 5 seconds. He was awarded the first yellow jersey of the competition.
The 2026 edition is the 18th Tour du Rwanda since it gained international status in 2009. The eight-stage race continues until March 1, covering nearly 1,000 km and over 16,000 meters of elevation gain across the country’s famously hilly terrain. A total of 18 teams, including four from Rwanda, are competing in this year’s tour.
