The cycling community is on the brink of history this month as siblings Kabelo and Pontšo Makatile prepare to represent the Mountain Kingdom at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda, from September 21 to 28.
This year’s edition is a landmark moment for the sport, the first time the world championships will be staged on African soil. For Lesotho, it is even more symbolic: a chance to showcase national pride, resilience, and proof that determination can thrive despite limited resources.
The Makatile siblings will be the country’s only representatives after the Federation of Cycling Lesotho (FCL) was forced to scale back its original plan of sending four riders.
Promising cyclists Khotsofalang Rakaota and Motlatsi Lempe, who had shown promise in domestic races, were left out after failing to meet the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) criteria, which require riders to earn sufficient international ranking points.
FCL’s Public Relations Officer Malefane Morie described the situation as painful but unavoidable.
“Rakaota and Lempe are incredibly talented riders, but due to financial constraints, they could not attend the international races needed to earn the required points. It’s not about their dedication, it is about access,” Morie explained.
Despite the setbacks, Kabelo earned his spot through a UCI-ANOCA development program designed to support African cycling talent. The initiative has provided him with intensive training and logistical assistance as he gears up for the world stage.
His sister, Pontšo, Lesotho’s leading female road cyclist, is also on the official entry list. However, her participation remains uncertain due to funding gaps.
“We are doing everything we can to get Pontšo to Rwanda. She deserves to be there, and we’re hopeful that support will come through,” Morie added.
Kabelo believes the journey from local village circuits to the biggest cycling stage is almost surreal.
“Growing up, I only raced in Lesotho. To now compete against the best in the world is something I never imagined,” he told Newsday Sports.
He will line up for the demanding 164-kilometre men’s road race, which is expected to test even the world’s strongest riders. His training has focused on building endurance and mental resilience to withstand the brutal course.
“Most riders do not finish the race. My goal is to finish. Just crossing that finish line would be a huge achievement for me and for Lesotho. Having someone who believes in you and pushes you is everything. That is what has helped me get here.”
While the Makatile siblings prepare for Kigali, another Basotho cyclist will fly the flag in Europe. Tumelo Makae, based in Switzerland with his professional team, will compete in the Mountain Bike and Pump Track events.
Makae has steadily built a reputation on the international MTB circuit and continues to broaden Lesotho’s presence in global cycling disciplines.
For the FCL, the dual representation at the world championships in both road and mountain biking is a milestone, but also a reminder of the challenges that persist.
“We need systemic support. International participation inspires the next generation and shows what’s possible. Our goal is to make cycling part of people’s lives,” Morie affirmed.
Summary
- The cycling community is on the brink of history this month as siblings Kabelo and Pontšo Makatile prepare to represent the Mountain Kingdom at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda, from September 21 to 28.
- To now compete against the best in the world is something I never imagined,” he told Newsday Sports.
- For the FCL, the dual representation at the world championships in both road and mountain biking is a milestone, but also a reminder of the challenges that persist.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
