The opening day of the 18th edition of the Tour du Rwanda turned tragic as two spectators lost their lives in a road accident. The accident occurred near Gabiro when a vehicle lost control in rainy conditions, leaving six others injured. The incident prompted an immediate investigation by authorities, casting a shadow over what began as a highly anticipated cycling event with the participation of 84 cyclists.

Despite the tragedy, the race continued, with Israel's Itamar Einhorn securing the first yellow jersey with a finish time of 4 hours and 5 seconds. This opening stage, the longest of the eight stages at 173 kilometers, also features a significant altitude gain of over 2000 meters, presenting a challenging course for the riders. Local officials have emphasized that the Tour du Rwanda is becoming increasingly prominent on the international cycling scene, largely due to the support and recognition from the International Cycling Union (UCI).

The accident has raised concerns about spectator safety at such events, particularly in challenging weather conditions. As investigations proceed, discussions about improving safety measures for both competitors and attendees are likely to gain traction, underscoring the need for enhanced protocols to prevent future tragedies during sporting events. The Tour du Rwanda, while growing in international stature, must now address these critical safety issues to ensure the well-being of everyone involved.