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It was by reading an article from La Dépêche that we discovered the particularly strict sanitary measures surrounding the Cycling World Championships in Rwanda (September 21-28, 2025). Vaccines, boiled water, daily pills, procedures in case of a bite or sting… all precautions that remind us that high-level cycling, sometimes, also takes place far from the finish lines. When cycling also combines with caution, every action counts.
By Jeff Tatard – Photo: DR
Even before riding, each athlete must check off an impressive list of constraints:
- Mandatory vaccinations (Hepatitis A, diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles, typhoid)
- Preventive treatment against malaria, to be taken daily
- Water always controlled: bottled or boiled, including for cooking and ice cubes
- And this strict rule that resonates like a survival slogan: « any bitten rider will be repatriated »
These instructions may seem excessive, but they reflect a reality: riders will have to contend with an environment that does not forgive mistakes.
The mental aspect, first line of defense
We know it: legs aren’t everything. The mental aspect will be scrutinized as much as the physical condition. Doctors will not just check for minor injuries or heatstroke: they will also take the time to gauge morale. In this type of context, anxiety, psychological fatigue, or fear of the unknown can weigh as heavily as a 12% climb.
The questions we must ask
Upon discovering these precautions, we wonder:
- How do teams apply these rules daily?
- What about less structured teams, with fewer logistical resources?
- Where is the line between necessary caution and an anxiety-inducing atmosphere?
- And above all: what lessons can be drawn for other competitions in countries with demanding sanitary conditions?
We like to talk about watts, exploits, and victories. But we also know that cycling is not just about visible performances. The Kigali World Championships are the perfect example: riders will have to fight a double battle, against their opponents and against an environment where every sanitary detail can change the course of their adventure.
Beyond the race, a global commitment
By discovering these realities through La Dépêche, we better understand what such a trip represents. Cycling is not just about crossing a finish line. It’s a sport where one exposes oneself, where one accepts risk, and where one learns to prepare for everything – from Alpine passes to African mosquitoes.
And at 3bikes, we like to remind that behind every race number, there are women and men capable of adapting, resisting, and sometimes even surviving before they can give their best on the bike.
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