In Stage 1, from Rukomo to Rwamagana over a distance of 173.6 km, Uwiduhaye was recognized as the best Rwandan rider of the day.
He finished in 42nd place overall, sharing the same finishing time of 4:00:04 with Israel’s Itamar Einhorn, who won the stage. However, Uwiduhaye gained an extra second during intermediate sprints (Bonifications), giving him the best time among Rwandan riders.
He said: "As Rwandan riders, our goal was to wear the yellow jersey, but it didn’t happen. The positive side is that we have a good overall time, and we will put in all our effort to achieve it."
Currently ranked 7th overall in the 2026 Tour du Rwanda, Uwiduhaye revealed that in Stage 2, a 135 km race from Nyamata to Huye, Rwandan riders will work together to win the stage, and he personally aims to claim the best climber title.
"We will unite as Rwandan riders and support each other on the road because we want the yellow jersey. Last year, I focused on earning points as the best climber, but this year my goal is to win the stage and, if possible, wear the best climber’s jersey."
Stage 2 of the 2026 Tour du Rwanda takes place on Monday, February 23, 2026, starting at 12:00 PM.
As of now, Israel’s Itamar Einhorn leads with a time of 3:59:54, four seconds ahead of Spain’s Munoz Gabina Hodei, while Rwandan Uwiduhaye Mike sits in 7th place, nine seconds behind the leader.
We Aim to Wear the Yellow Jersey – Uwiduhaye Mike Ahead of Stage 2 of Tour du Rwanda