Sunshine Coast To Host 2028 UCI Para-Cycling Road World Championships

Sunshine Coast has been announced as the host of the 2028 Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Para-cycling Road World Championships.

The Championships, which will take place in March 2028, will bring the best of the Para-cycling world in a Paralympic Games year to Queensland in pursuit of world titles and rainbow jerseys.

The Championships will feature team relays, individual time trials and road races.

The awarding of the hosting rights to the Championships to AusCycling emphasises the Queensland Government’s commitment to hosting international cycling events.

AusCycling chief executive Marne Fechner congratulated Sunshine Coast on their selection as hosts.

“This is a remarkable opportunity to showcase our spirit and commitment to inclusivity in sport,” Fechner said.

“We look forward to welcoming athletes from around the world and celebrating their extraordinary talent, achievements and stories.”

Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy said “Queensland is in the fast lane when it comes to hosting major global sporting events”.

“Just look at what’s to come and the legacy benefits that will remain as we pave the green and gold runway toward the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.

“Securing both the 2028 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships and the 2030 UCI Track Cycling World Championships shows we’re on the right track to becoming not only Australia’s sporting capital, but a powerhouse for international sport.

“From Brisbane’s world-class velodrome to the scenic roads of the Sunshine Coast, we’re shifting into top gear to welcome the world’s best cyclists.

“These events will pump millions into our local economy, support jobs, and show that Queensland is a real champion when it comes to sport and tourism.”

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said it was exciting to have secured the first internationally significant para-sport event for Queensland ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, demonstrating our co-host capabilities.

“We expect the event will attract substantial national and international attention with competitors from more than 45 countries,” Mayor Natoli said.

“It will also provide an extended broadcast reach, showcasing a course that would take advantage of our region’s natural assets ranging from the coast to hinterland.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to help promote the region as an international event destination and raise awareness that we are ready to host large-scale global events in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“We also feel strongly that showcasing para-sport will promote inclusion and diversity among the community while adding to the region’s growing reputation as an accessible tourism destination.”

The UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships is an annual event organised by the UCI that brings together the world’s best para-cyclists to compete in road cycling events.

These Championships feature various classes and categories for athletes with different types of disabilities, including handcycling, tricycle racing, and visually impaired cycling.

The event is expected to bring over 500 international athletes and support staff to the region.

The event will be the key selection event for nations in their qualification for the 2028 Paralympic Games and a key test event ahead of competing in Los Angeles.

By Tim Mannion, Paralympics Australia.

Published 1 October, 2024.