A Landmark Edition of a Growing Cycling Event
Bike Abu Dhabi 2025 has once again confirmed its position as one of the Middle East’s most exciting long-distance cycling events. The fourth edition of the Gran Fondo concluded with a dramatic finish, as Ukrainian cyclist Serhii Sydor claimed the overall men’s title after an intensely competitive race across Abu Dhabi’s varied landscapes.
Bringing together elite professionals, ambitious amateurs, and national champions, the event attracted more than 1,000 cyclists from 68 nationalities. The 150-kilometre course tested endurance, tactical intelligence, and sprint strength, creating a race that was thrilling from start to finish.
A Scenic Yet Demanding 150-Kilometre Route
The race began at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain, a location known for hosting major sporting events, before stretching across wide-open roads and desert scenery toward the Sheikh Zayed Festival grounds in Al Wathba.
While the route offered stunning views, it also demanded constant focus from riders. Long straight sections encouraged high speeds, while changing wind conditions and sustained pace put pressure on both teams and solo competitors. The mix of professional riders and well-prepared amateurs added another layer of complexity, as different racing strategies unfolded throughout the day.
Early Momentum and Structured Competition
The peloton rolled out early in the morning, with professional men’s and women’s riders leading the charge. Registered teams set a strong tempo from the start, ensuring that the front of the race remained fast and tightly controlled.
To ensure fairness and safety, participants were grouped according to average speeds. This structure allowed competitive amateurs to push their limits while maintaining organized race conditions. It also highlighted the inclusive nature of Bike Abu Dhabi 2025, where riders of different backgrounds and experience levels could share the same world-class event.
Serhii Sydor’s Tactical and Physical Masterclass
Riding for Al Wathba Team, Serhii Sydor delivered a performance that combined discipline, patience, and explosive power. Over the 150-kilometre distance, he stayed well-positioned within the leading group, responding calmly to attacks and conserving energy for the decisive moments.
Sydor crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 30 seconds, securing the men’s overall title by the narrowest of margins. His victory was not only a display of physical strength but also a reflection of race intelligence, as he timed his final effort perfectly.
A Photo-Finish Podium in the Men’s Race
The men’s podium highlighted just how competitive Bike Abu Dhabi 2025 truly was. Dutch cyclist Cornelis Vermeltfoort finished second, only one second behind Sydor, pushing the winner to the very edge.
Russia’s Anton Popov claimed third place by mere fractions of a second, making it one of the closest finishes in the event’s history. The razor-thin gaps between the top three riders underscored the high standard of competition and the intense pressure felt in the final kilometres.
Women’s Race Showcases Strength and Consistency
The women’s overall category delivered its own share of excitement, led by an outstanding performance from Dutch cyclist Nina Kessler. She completed the course in 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 37 seconds, demonstrating remarkable consistency across the long-distance route.
Slovakia’s Nora Jenčušová secured second place after a determined ride, while the Netherlands’ Yona Vandamme completed the podium in third. The women’s race reflected the growing depth of talent in international cycling and the increasing prominence of female competitors at major endurance events.
Strong Representation from UAE Riders
Local riders made a powerful statement throughout Bike Abu Dhabi 2025, particularly in the UAE Nationals categories. In the men’s division, Abdullah Al Hammadi of Abu Dhabi Cycling Club emerged victorious with a time of 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 33 seconds.
He finished ahead of Salem Al Shmeili from Dubai Police Team and Ahmed Al Mansoori, showcasing the strength of domestic cycling programs and the steady rise of Emirati athletes on competitive platforms.
UAE Nationals Women Deliver Inspiring Performances
The UAE Nationals women’s race was led by Marwa Salman of My Whoosh Team, who claimed first place with a time of 3 hours, 31 minutes, and 14 seconds. Her controlled and confident ride set her apart from the field.
Noura Al Ghafli followed closely in second place, while Aisha Foulad completed the podium in third. Their performances reflected the growing participation and development of women’s cycling within the UAE.
Team Excellence Across Multiple Categories
Team competition added another layer of excitement to Bike Abu Dhabi 2025. In the men’s team standings, Dubai Police Team claimed first place, benefiting from strong coordination and consistent pacing across riders.
Shabab Al Ahli Dubai finished second, while Abu Dhabi Cycling Club secured third, highlighting the competitive depth among local teams.
In the women’s team category, Dubai Police Team once again topped the standings, followed by Dubai Residency Team in second and Astro Falcon Team in third. The team results emphasized the importance of collective strategy and support in long-distance cycling.
A Complete Fan and Family Experience
Beyond the racing itself, Bike Abu Dhabi 2025 offered a vibrant atmosphere for spectators and families. The Race Village at the Sheikh Zayed Festival served as a central hub, featuring fan engagement activities, family-friendly zones, exhibitor booths, and rider recovery areas.
Live television coverage ensured that fans across the UAE could follow the action, with expert analysis and on-ground reporting capturing key moments from all race categories. The combination of sport, culture, and community made the event more than just a competition.
Bike Abu Dhabi’s Growing Global Impact
With participants from 68 nationalities and a prize pool of AED 2 million, Bike Abu Dhabi 2025 continues to attract global attention. The event successfully blends elite-level racing with inclusivity, offering a platform where professionals and passionate amateurs share the same roads and challenges.
Serhii Sydor’s thrilling victory stands as a defining moment of this edition, symbolizing the intensity and prestige that Bike Abu Dhabi now represents. As the event continues to grow, it is quickly becoming a must-attend race on the international cycling calendar, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a world-class sporting destination.
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