Henok Mulubrhan: Pioneering Eritrean Cycling and the Quest for Greater Opportunities

Henok Mulubrhan, the two-time African champion and 2023 African Cyclist of the Year, discusses the growth of Eritrean cycling and the necessity for more competitive opportunities for African riders. While celebrating the achievements of peers like Biniam Girmay, he emphasizes the cultural significance of cycling in Eritrea and the urgent need for more races to help young riders flourish professionally. Looking ahead to the 2025 World Road Championships in Rwanda, Mulubrhan remains committed to achieving a personal WorldTour victory.

Henok Mulubrhan, a prominent figure in the world of African cycling, has established himself as a two-time African champion and the 2023 African Cyclist of the Year. In an exclusive interview with Olympics.com, Mulubrhan expounded on the burgeoning landscape of Eritrean cycling and the dire need for greater competitive opportunities for African riders. He noted, “At the moment, there are not many races in Africa where they can show what they can do.” Eritrea has carved out a reputation as Africa’s preeminent cycling nation in the last decade, largely due to the trailblazing efforts of riders like Daniel Teklehaimanot, who gained international recognition at the 2015 Tour de France. In particular, Biniam Girmay has become a household name, celebrated for his remarkable victories at the 2022 Giro d’Italia and the recent Tour de France, making him an emblematic figure for Eritrean cycling. Reflecting on this rise, Mulubrhan asserted, “Eritrean cyclists are really increasing their level and this represents motivation for all of us.” He emphasized the importance of recent successes in stimulating the aspirations of young riders. Mulubrhan shares a close friendship with Girmay; both competed at the UCI World Cycling Centre in Switzerland, and he noted that Girmay’s success has not changed his character. Their shared milestones—such as Mulubrhan’s first African title coinciding with Girmay’s historic classic win—symbolize a notable moment in African cycling, which binds their narratives together. The enthusiasm for cycling in Eritrea is palpable, with Mulubrhan describing it as almost a religion. He expressed pride in the recognition Eritrean riders now receive, stating, “In Eritrea, there’s a great atmosphere, and people recognise me. But now, even in Europe, cycling fans are looking for Biniam, me, and other Eritrean riders.” Looking ahead, the 2025 World Road Championships in Kigali, Rwanda, present an exciting opportunity for African cyclists. Mulubrhan conveyed optimism regarding the course, saying, “The fact they will be the first Worlds in Africa, it will be an extra motivation.” He has prior experience racing in Rwanda and underscored the growing passion for the sport in the country, which parallels Eritrea’s. However, he lamented the scarcity of races on the continent that provide African riders with pathways to professional careers. He remarked, “Unfortunately, there are not enough races for the African young riders to show their qualities. The Worlds are a good opportunity, but it’s just one race.” Mulubrhan’s journey has included significant achievements, such as winning the Tour of Rwanda and the Tour of Qinghai. He reflected on the ambition inherent in African cycling, expressing a desire to secure a WorldTour victory for himself and his team. With a fervent drive for success, he declared, “My dream is to have a WorldTour race win for the team, but also for me. Winning a stage in a Grand Tour would be amazing.” With such determination and talent, the future of African cycling appears promising under the leadership of riders like Henok Mulubrhan.

The article examines the rise of Eritrean cycling, particularly focusing on two prominent cyclists, Henok Mulubrhan and Biniam Girmay, and highlights the current state of opportunities for African riders. In recent years, Eritrean cyclists have gained international recognition, and the article discusses the impact of competitive events and landmark victories on their development. It also emphasizes the cultural significance of cycling in Eritrea and the challenges faced by young African cyclists in securing professional racing opportunities beyond their home continent, particularly in pursuit of contracts with European teams.

Henok Mulubrhan’s journey as an Eritrean cycling champion underscores the evolution of cycling in Africa and illustrates the potential of Eritrean athletes on the world stage. Despite the excitement surrounding upcoming events like the 2025 World Road Championships in Rwanda, the need for increased opportunities for African cyclists remains a pressing issue. Mulubrhan’s aspirations reflect not only his personal goals but also a broader hope for the future of African cycling. Ultimately, his success serves as a beacon for aspiring cyclists across the continent, reinforcing the idea that with determination and support, they can achieve greatness.

Original Source: olympics.com