The Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF) has revised the schedule for the 2026 Tour du Ghana, moving the arrival date for international teams to 12 November and cancelling four stages in the northern part of the country.
The affected stages are Tamale, Buipe, Kintampo and Sunyani, with the federation citing athlete safety, safeguarding and logistical considerations as reasons for the changes.
GCF Secretary General Shabaan Mohammed said the adjustments were also intended to give cyclists returning from the Tour du Faso adequate rest and travel time before competing in Ghana.
He added that only riders with valid Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) licences would be eligible for registration.
Despite the changes, the Tour du Ghana will proceed as scheduled, with organisers retaining the opportunity for competitors to race through the mountainous terrain of the Volta Region and some of the well-maintained roads in the Eastern Region.
The revised route is expected to provide opportunities for powerful riders, sprinters and tactically astute cyclists to showcase their abilities.
Meanwhile, Mohammed has appealed to Ghana's President to follow the example of his Burkinabe counterpart by increasing the prize money for the winner of the Tour du Ghana.
He made the appeal while pointing to Burkina Faso's decision to increase the winner's prize money for the 2027 Tour du Faso, which is currently underway.
Mohammed also expressed appreciation to companies, including Kantanka Automobile, Sentuo Group, Promasidor and Prudential Insurance, as well as the Black Star Experience Secretariat, for showing interest in supporting the competition.
He, however, urged more corporate organisations to support the event, describing cycling as an important tool for promoting transportation, healthy living and tourism.
"We still welcome more sponsors because it is a Ghana affair and corporate Ghana must support. Cycling is a means of transport and promotes healthy living. We are also promoting tourism," he stressed.
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