The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has unveiled the logo of the Cycling League of India (CLI), marking the launch of the world’s first franchise-based road cycling league.
The initiative is designed to create a professional ecosystem for cycling in India, nurture domestic talent, and attract international participation, while strengthening India’s sporting landscape.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| League Name | Cycling League of India (CLI) |
| Type | World’s first franchise-based road cycling league |
| Announced By | Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports |
| Objective | Develop a professional cycling ecosystem in India |
The league is considered a landmark initiative for cycling in India, aimed at boosting global competitiveness and participation in the sport.
Structure of Cycling League of India
The league will follow a franchise-based format similar to other professional sports leagues.
| Feature | Details |
| Number of Teams | 8 city or region-based franchises |
| Cyclists per Team | 10 riders |
| Total Riders | 80 cyclists |
Team Composition
Each team will include a mix of international and domestic cyclists.
| Category | Number |
| International Riders | 2 per team |
| Junior Cyclists | 2 per team |
| Other Riders | Professional Indian cyclists |
Purpose of the Composition
- International riders bring global expertise and competitive standards.
- Junior cyclists help develop future talent and ensure sustainability.
Competition Format
The league will be organised in three competitive phases, culminating in a grand finale.
| Race Format | Description |
| Criterium Races | Short-distance races on closed circuits |
| Team Time Trials | Teams compete collectively against time |
| Mass Start Events | Riders start together, first to finish wins |
These formats are designed to provide strategic racing and spectator excitement.
Growth of Professional Cycling in India
The league builds on the recent resurgence of professional cycling events in India.
One of the most notable successes is the Pune Grand Tour.
Achievements of Pune Grand Tour
| Indicator | Data |
| Status | World’s largest UCI 2.2 stage race |
| Spectators | 2.5 million active spectators |
| PR Value | ₹144 million |
| Recognition | Praised by Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) |
Cycling as a Mass Movement in India
Alongside professional events, India is witnessing a nationwide cycling movement.
Fit India Sundays on Cycle
The programme Fit India Movement launched “Fit India Sundays on Cycle” in December 2024.
Participation Growth
| Indicator | Data |
| Total Participants | 25 lakh citizens |
| Locations Covered | 2.5 lakh locations |
| Editions Conducted | 63 editions |
| Weekly Participation | Over 10 lakh citizens |
| Current Locations | More than 10,000 locations every Sunday |
The initiative has transformed cycling into a people-led solution for health and pollution reduction.
Other Major Cycling Events in India
Several events have contributed to the popularity of cycling across the country.
| Event | Location / Organizer |
| Statue of Unity Cyclothon | Gujarat |
| HCL Cyclothon | Organised across major cities |
| Various Cyclothons | Nationwide |
These events have helped expand the participation base and visibility of cycling.
Expansion of Professional Sports Leagues in India
India has seen rapid growth in franchise-based professional sports leagues, including:
- Cricket
- Football
- Kabaddi
- Wrestling
- Hockey
With the introduction of the Cycling League of India, 2026 is expected to witness further expansion of professional sports leagues in the country.