On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the race continued with Stage Four, covering 127.2 kilometers from Karongi to Rubavu.
The race officially started at 12:00 p.m., with riders completing a neutral section of 1.9 kilometers before competitive racing began. Shortly after, the peloton split into several groups.
Julian Borresch of REMBE | rad-net claimed the first King of the Mountains (KOM) points at Gisaze. A leading group of 19 riders then formed at the front, dominated by Soudal Quick-Step riders.
Borresch went on to secure the second KOM points at Rutsiro (30.5 km into the race).
Rwandan rider Manizabayo Eric, popularly known as “Karadiyo,” from Benediction Banafrica Team, was part of the 19-man breakaway. He later attacked solo and claimed the third KOM points.
However, Karadiyo was eventually caught by a chasing group of 15 riders, forming a 16-man lead group. With 20 kilometers remaining, three riders — Kretschy, Cuylits, and De Clercq — broke away from the front group.
De Clercq also won the fourth KOM points at Mount Rambo, strengthening his lead.
He maintained his advantage to win Stage Four in 3:05:55. Germany’s Moritz Kretschy of NSN Development Team finished second with the same time, while Luke Finlay Tarling, also from NSN Development Team, placed third, 2 minutes and 15 seconds behind the leaders.
The best-placed Rwandan rider was Byukusenge, who finished 13th, also trailing by 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
In the general classification, 23-year-old German rider Moritz Kretschy of NSN Devo Team now wears the yellow jersey as the overall race leader.
The highest-ranked Rwandan in the overall standings is Niyonkuru Samuel, who sits in 17th place, 4 minutes and 59 seconds behind the leader.
Belgian Rider Mathjis De Clercq Wins Stage Four of Tour du Rwanda 2026
