The 37th Iran-Azerbaijan Cycling Tour kicked off Tuesday morning, launched by East Azerbaijan's Governor Bahram Sarmast, marking a vibrant start to one of the region’s premier sporting events, state media reported.

Why it matters:

The five-day race, running from May 27 to May 31, showcases Iran’s growing sports diplomacy, bringing together international and domestic athletes.

 

Details:

  • 11 teams: Seven international squads from Indonesia (Jakarta Pro), Kazakhstan (Vino), Turkey (Spor Toto, Istanbul Bld Spor), Iraq (national team), Uzbekistan (Oyuson), and Germany (Bike Aid), alongside four Iranian teams.
  • Stage 1: A 153.8-kilometer course from Tabriz to Urmia, flagged off with a ceremonial pistol shot.

 

What they're saying:

Baktiar from Kazakhstan expresses his gratitude for the organization of the contest.

 

Head coach of the Iraq team, Mohammad Rajablu, hails the contest level and calls for one with the participation of bicyclers at the senior level. 

 

Sudabeh Hashtroodi, referee of the 37th Azerbaijan International Tour in Iran says that in the previous round of the contest, there were four women bicyclers but this round the number has increased.

 

International Cycling Federation referee Fereshteh Chelani, who officiated the 37th Azerbaijan International Cycling Tour in Iran, notes that this is the second year of official participation for women in the cycling tour.

 

What’s next:

The tour will weave through scenic and challenging routes across the host provinces, culminating on May 31, with organizers highlighting its role in promoting tourism and cultural exchange.

 

Go deeper:

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seyed mohammad kazemi