National cycling race ‘Returning to Phuoc Long to Build Victory’ kickstarts in 2026

(ĐN) - Riders lined up at Binh Phuoc Ward on Monday morning (January 5) as the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Vietnam Cycling Federation (VCF) opened the 2026 national tournament, the "Returning to Phuoc Long to Build Victory" Race.

The opening ceremony welcomed representatives of the Vietnam Cycling Federation, leaders of Dong Nai’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and officials from Binh Phuoc Ward.

Athletes and officials at the opening ceremony. Photo: Nhu Nam

The tournament features nearly 100 professional riders from 10 teams across the country. Over the course of two days, the cyclists will compete in three stages, comprising two individual time trials and a road race.

The second stage of the road race covers 128 kilometers, rolling through Chon Thanh, Nha Bich, Dong Xoai, Binh Phuoc, Thuan Loi, Phu Rieng, Binh Tan, Phuoc Binh, before the finish in Phuoc Long Ward.

Organizers presenting commemorative flags to participating teams. Photo: Nhu Nam

The tournament celebrates the 51st anniversary of the Liberation of Phuoc Long (January 6, 1975 – 2026). The race is also an occasion for Dong Nai to showcase its socio-economic achievements and tourism potential to riders and cycling fans nationwide.

Cyclists compete in the Stage 1 individual time trial on Ho Xuan Huong Road in Binh Phuoc Ward. Photo: Nhu Nam

Immediately after the opening ceremony, cyclists took to the start line for the 5km individual time trial on Ho Xuan Huong Road, around Suoi Cam Lake in Binh Phuoc Ward.

Nguyen Tuan Vu of Vinama Ho Chi Minh City wins the 5km individual time trial, earning the green jersey and yellow jersey as Stage 1 leader. Photo: Nhu Nam

The organizing committee awards top performers in Stage 1. Photo: Nhu Nam

The 5km individual time trial concluded with cyclist Nguyen Tuan Vu of Vinama Ho Chi Minh City finishing first with a time of 5 minutes and 47 seconds, earning both the green jersey and the yellow jersey as the overall leader of Stage 1. In the team category, Vo Dac Dong Nai took first place, while host team rider Tran Trong Phuc claimed the white jersey as the best young cyclist.

By Tran Canh, Nhu Nam – Translated by Thien Kim, Minho