MS Dhoni announced as ambassador for Pune Grand Tour 2026

Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been revealed as the Goodwill Ambassador of the Pune Grand Tour, India’s first-ever international multi-stage professional road cycling race.

By bringing Dhoni on board, the event aims to gain global visibility through the former World Cup-winning Team India captain’s popularity, with the 44-year-old promoting cycling as a competitive sport, particularly among youngsters.

The 2026 Pune Grand Tour is scheduled to take place between January 19 and 23, 2026, in Pune, Maharashtra. This will be India’s first UCI 2.2 category, five-day Continental Road Cycling Race for men. Riders will compete across 437 kilometres covering the Deccan Plateau and the Sahyadri Range, featuring sharp bends, varied terrain, and steep elevations. 171 riders from 35 countries are set to take part.

On joining the Pune Grand Tour, Dhoni commented:

“I’m happy to be associated with Pune Grand Tour in promoting the sport. With the emergence of the Pune Grand Tour, India is pedalling into a new chapter in cycling as a professional sport. I wish the organisers, the Pune District Administrators, great success with the initiative, and all the riders the very best. A special mention to the Indian National Team, this is their moment to shine in front of home fans and bring glory to the nation.”