Rwamagana, February 22, 2026
Israel’s Itamar Einhorn claimed a stunning victory on the opening stage of the 2026 Tour du Rwanda on Sunday, winning the 173.6km opener from Rukomo to Rwamagana to pull on the coveted yellow jersey on the first day of racing.
The NSN Development Team rider timed his effort perfectly to come out on top after a demanding debut stage that took the peloton through Rwanda’s rolling terrain, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive week of racing.
Einhorn’s win marks a historic moment for Israeli cycling at the Tour du Rwanda, with the 18th edition of Africa’s biggest professional race now well and truly underway.
The race continues Monday with Stage 2 as the peloton pushes deeper into Rwanda’s famous hills, with the yellow jersey firmly in Einhorn’s sights heading into the days ahead.
Tour du Rwanda 2026 runs February 22 to March 1.
CABN Contributor 
CABN Staff Writer