De Neve from Belgian shocks cyclists at 2025 Tour du Ghana Grand finale at Ablekuma Vicolis
Belgium’s cyclists signed off the Tour du Cycling Race with a dominant flourish, sweeping the top four positions in a pulsating Grand Finale at Ablekuma Vicolis.
Joerik De Neve delivered the headline performance, powering through the 2.5km circuit—completed over 20 laps—to secure victory in 1:18:44.950. The final metres produced a gripping sprint, with the Belgian quartet locking out the podium in a show of collective strength.
Jonas De Schampheleire chased De Neve home for second place, while Fil D’Heygere and Kasper Saver finished third and fourth respectively, the tight gaps between them reflecting the intensity of the closing stretch.
Beyond the Belgian sweep—remarkably achieved by riders all wearing the number 9—the finale showcased an increasingly competitive international field. Daniel Bichimann of Obroni placed fifth, followed closely by Burkina Faso’s Souaila Ilboudo in sixth and Nigeria’s Gabriel John Odum in seventh, signalling the growing depth of African talent in the sport.
Ghana’s Victor Cudjoe Akpabli put in a spirited ride to finish as the top local cyclist on the day.
Riders representing the Netherlands, Benin, Togo, Nigeria, the Greater Accra team and the Bahati outfit all completed the demanding course, adding colour to an event built on both athletic quality and international participation.
The finale attracted several dignitaries, including Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams, the Ministry’s Chief Director Wilhelmina Asamoah, and former North Tongu MP Kobby Woyome. Ghana Olympic Committee president Richard Akpokavie and board member Nana Mankatta were also present, alongside representatives of the event’s sponsors.
The curtain came down on a vibrant edition of the Tour, one that celebrated Belgian dominance while reaffirming cycling’s inclusive and global spirit.
Top 10 Finishers
- Joerik De Neve (Belgium)
- Jonas De Schampheleire (Belgium)
- Fil D’Heygere (Belgium)
- Kasper Saver (Belgium)
- Daniel Bichimann (Obroni Riders)
- Souaila Ilboudo (Burkina Faso)
- Gabriel John Odum (Nigeria)
- Tom Wyeve (Netherlands)
- Tomas De Neve (Belgium)
- Souleymane Kone (Burkina Faso)
Stage Awards
- – Bastian Dieti clinched the ultimate yellow jersey while also sweeping the best climber and intermediate sprint honours.
- – Luuk Van de Meer earned the best rider accolade and topped the overall breakaway classification.
- – Belgium claimed the Overall Best Team title.
- – Tom De Neve secured the overall individual points award.
- – Victor Cudjoe emerged as the Best Ghanaian rider.
- – Gandaho M.C. Charbel was named the Overall Best Young Rider, Farrakhan Mohammed the youngest competitor, and Daniel Bichimann the Best Oldest rider.