The first stage of this year’s edition held for the 15th time saw riders setting off from Kigali Golf Resort & Villas to cross the finishing line in Rwamagana District.

Vernon emerged winner of the first stage held on Sunday 19th February 2023 after making a breakaway from the peloton in few meters before reaching the finishing line.

Emilien Jeannière riding for TotalEnergies emerged second followed by Mulueberhan Henok of Green Project Bardiani cycling team and Fiorelli Filipo from the same team.

This year’s race is the fifth edition since Tour du Rwanda was upgraded to UCI 2.1 category in 2019.

Moïse Mugisha riding for Team Rwanda, was the top performing Rwandan Munyarwanda where he was the 21st to cross the finishing line clocking the same time used by other riders in his peloton.

Other riders in the same peloton include Masengesho (Team Rwanda), Muhoza Eric (Bike Aid) and Bigirimana Jean Nepo (May Stars).

British national Chris Froome from Israel-Premier Tech participating in Tour du Rwanda for the first time emerged 44th.

Tour du Rwanda 2023 will continue on Monday 20th February 2023 with the second stage from Kigali Car Free Zone to Gisagara district covering 132.9 kilometers.

At 93 riders are participating in this year’s race.

Ethan Vernon was excited for being the first to cross the finishing line.

Nsengimana Jean Bosco was awarded as the best climber as the first stage of Tour du Rwanda 2023 was concluded.