Henok Mulubrhan, a two-time African champion and the 2023 African Cyclist of the Year, is determined to advance the profile of Eritrean cycling and emulate fellow athlete Biniam Girmay’s successes. Mulubrhan highlights the motivational progress among Eritrean cyclists while also emphasizing the need for greater opportunities for young African riders in competitive cycling. He is looking towards the 2025 World Road Championships as a pivotal moment for showcasing African talents and is committed to achieving success in his professional career with goals of securing a WorldTour victory.
Henok Mulubrhan, a two-time African cycling champion and the 2023 African Cyclist of the Year, is motivated to elevate the profile of African cycling and to follow in the footsteps of Eritrean cycling hero Biniam Girmay. In a recent interview with Olympics.com, Mulubrhan discussed the growing prominence of Eritrean cyclists and the pressing need for more competitive opportunities within Africa. Eritrea has emerged as Africa’s premier cycling nation over the past decade. The nation initially gained international recognition when cyclist Daniel Teklehaimanot donned the polka dot jersey during the 2015 Tour de France. Since then, several Eritrean athletes have successfully joined WorldTour teams, carving out significant careers. Mulubrhan emphasized the impact of these successes, stating that the achievements of Eritrean cyclists serve as motivation for their peers. He noted, “Eritrean cyclists are really increasing their level and this represents motivation for all of us. After the results of the last few years, everyone is motivated to reach the top. We are on the right path.” Having shared a similar journey with Biniam Girmay, known for his historic victories at the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France, Mulubrhan praised his friend’s humility despite rising fame, describing Girmay as someone who remains authentic and supportive. Moreover, Mulubrhan marked a significant milestone, celebrating his first African title on the same day that Girmay achieved his landmark victory at Gent-Wevelgem. In Eritrea, cycling is deeply cherished, and Mulubrhan relishes the warmth and admiration from fans when he trains at home. “In Eritrea, people love riders when they pass by. They like taking pictures with you,” he noted. With the upcoming World Road Championships scheduled for 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, African riders are filled with anticipation for the unique opportunity to compete at home on a challenging course. Mulubrhan highlighted the importance of this event for showcasing African talent, marking it as a significant motivation for local cyclists. He expressed concern, however, about the limited opportunities available for young African cyclists to establish their careers as professional cyclists, advocating for more races and visibility in the sport. The journey of Mulubrhan as a professional cyclist is a testament to his dedication. After achieving significant victories, including his second African title and other prestigious races, he has signed with the Astana Qazaqstan Team and is keen to add a WorldTour victory to his achievements. Mulubrhan describes himself as a puncheur, adept at racing in small groups and climbing short inclines, asserting his intention to win a stage in a Grand Tour as a personal dream. With ambitions set high, Henok Mulubrhan exemplifies the drive and potential of African cyclists, paving the way for future generations.
The article highlights the notable rise of Eritrean cycling, focusing on Henok Mulubrhan, who has emerged as a dominant athlete within the sport. It outlines the historical context of cycling in Eritrea, tracing its roots to the late 19th century during Italian colonial rule. The growing recognition of Eritrean cyclists on the global stage is attributed to their participation in major events and the successes of prominent figures like Biniam Girmay. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges faced by African cyclists regarding competitive opportunities and underscores the significance of upcoming events such as the World Road Championships in promoting African talent.
Henok Mulubrhan’s aspirations and achievements reflect the burgeoning potential of Eritrean cycling and its place on the international stage. His call for increased opportunities for African riders underscores the need for dedicated racing events on the continent that can nurture and showcase emerging talent. As the cycling community anticipates the World Road Championships in Rwanda, there is a shared hope that this event will serve as a platform for African cyclists to shine and further elevate the sport within Africa and beyond.
Original Source: olympics.com
