The 21st edition of the Tour of Benin brings together riders from 14 countries for a course of over 731 km, with several organisational adjustments announced by cycling authorities.
The 21st edition of the tour, registered on the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) calendar as a 2.2 event and takes place from April 27 to May 3, 2026.
A press conference was held in Cotonou on Thursday, April 23, 2026, to present this 21st edition of the Tour of Benin. At this event, the president of the Benin Cycling Federation, Romuald Hazoume, outlined the main features of the race.
The prologue takes place in Cotonou over a distance of 4.80 km, the starting point of the race. The first stage connects Zagnanado to Save over 126.04 km, approximately 250 km north of Cotonou.
The second stage runs from N’Dali to Tchaourou, via Bétérou, a distance of 155.72 km, in the north of the country, more than 400 km from Cotonou.
The third stage takes the peloton from Djougou to Bante, a distance of 169.76 km, in an area located in northwestern Benin.
The fourth stage connects Dassa to Porto-Novo via Adjarra, a distance of 127.80 km, heading back southeast, about 30 km from Cotonou.
The fifth stage runs from Zogbodomey to Cotonou, a distance of 128.65 km, finishing in the economic capital. In total, the route covers approximately 731 km through several regions of Benin.
Organisational innovations
According to the organizers, at the press conference on Thursday, April 23, approximately 90 riders from 14 countries are expected.
The prologue will be an individual time trial, with standard timing to ensure equal conditions for all teams.
The organisers also announced the presence of UCI President David Lappartient.
A women’s race, the Grand Prix des Amazones, is on the program, covering a distance of 68 km. Additional races, such as the Prix de l’Inclusion and the Grand Prix de Cotonou, are also planned.
The 2026 Tour of Benin thus brings together African and international teams across the country.
SS/te/Sf/fss/as/APA