Launch of Ride & Learn Cycling Programme for education and peace

The Ride & Learn methodology can be used by cycling coaches, educators and teachers of children of all abilities, whether learning to ride a bike, improving their cycling skills or training at a higher level. The aim is to pass on not only cycling skills but also fundamental values such as respect, listening, solidarity and cooperation, thereby helping to develop responsible citizens who are open to others.

Developed jointly by experts from the UCI WCC, the UCI and Peace and Sport, the methodology takes the form of a teaching manual that includes 75 sessions. Both structured and adaptable, this resource aims to transmit important life tools:

• Accept yourself: developing self-confidence, self-expression and active listening
• Accept the other: learning mutual respect and constructive communication
• Live together: promoting team spirit, inclusion and coexistence within the group

The Ride & Learn programme combines the technical and educational expertise of the UCI and UCI WCC with Peace and Sport's proven experience in the adaptation and design of sports content to promote education, inclusion and peace through sport.

The Ride & Learn methodology is an additional tool available to the UCI's 205 affiliated National Federations to help them develop cycling in their country. It is also intended for other organisations working with young people in communities around the world, for example governments, ministries, Non-Governmental Organisations and cycling clubs. A page dedicated to the methodology can be found on the UCI website.

The implementation of the methodology began earlier this year with a pilot project in Rwanda, which will host the first UCI Road World Championships to be held on the African continent (21-28 September 2025). Educators recognised by the Rwandan Cycling Federation (FERWACY) have been trained to lead sessions with disadvantaged young children, creating a safe and supportive learning environment.

The Ride & Learn programme has the precious backing of Peace and Sport's Champions for Peace, top athletes from different backgrounds who put their experience and fame to good use for the cause. Togolese Olympic medalist Benjamin Boukpeti (canoe-kayak) helped train educators in Rwanda, while BMX Racing Olympic medalist Carlos Oquendo (COL) used the methodology to lead workshops with young people from vulnerable communities in Colombia. Meanwhile, athletics legend Wilson Kipketer, who attended the 2025 UCI Mobility & Bike City Forum, highlighted the importance of athletes as role models who children can relate to. The Danish three-time 800m World Champion and two-time Olympic medalist told Forum participants: "Athletes are in a unique position to inspire the young generation. I was champion of the village before I became the champion of the world."

UCI President David Lappartient said: "The new Ride & Learn programme will help young people in communities around the world develop skills both on and off the bike. It is fitting that the pilot project was implemented in Rwanda, which will host our UCI Road World Championships in September this year, and which recently opened a UCI World Cycling Centre Regional Development Satellite. Our aim is to ensure that everyone, whatever their age or ability, can experience the benefits of riding a bike!"

President and Founder of Peace and Sport Joël Bouzou said: "I am immensely proud of the collaboration between Peace and Sport and the UCI that resulted in the creation of the "Ride and Learn" programme. This initiative will empower educators with the essential tools they need to effect meaningful change and foster the development of more peaceful communities. Together, we are making a significant impact!"

UCI World Cycling Centre Director Jacques Landry said: "Working with Peace and Sport was an obvious choice: their expertise in using sport as a vehicle for peace is in line with the values and mission of the UCI and UCI WCC. The Ride & Learn methodology goes beyond simply passing on technical skills: it enables educators to become real agents of change. We are pleased to make this resource available to National Federations, coaches, teachers and educators worldwide."

Peace and Sport Chief Executive Officer Jean-Jérôme Perrin-Mortier said: "Thanks to the Ride & Learn methodology, cycling is not just a sporting activity, but a real catalyst for education, inclusion and social change. By offering the most vulnerable communities a concrete tool to get around, learn and come together, we are building bridges of solidarity. Together, we are transforming cycling into a powerful lever for social cohesion, lasting peace and hope for a more equitable future."

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