Cycling in Pakistan has had a tumultuous journey — marked by significant achievements and prolonged administrative disputes. The recent elections of Pakistan Cycling Federation (PCF) ended a long-standing dispute within the federation. Idrees Haider Khawaja was elected as the new President and and Moazzam Khan Klair was elected the General Secretary.

The new leadership of PCF is now all focused on reviving good old days of Pakistan cycling. In this regard, PCF’s main road cycle-racing event is the Tour de Pakistan which is set to return in February 2025 after a 13-year break.

PCF, established in 1947, had an inspiring start. The federation organised the inaugural National Cycling Championship in 1948 during the National Games in Karachi, an event inaugurated by none other than Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who also served as PCF’s first honorary president. Over the years, PCF earned its place on the global stage through its affiliation with the Union Cycliste Internationale, the Asian Cycling Confederation, and Pakistan’s national sporting bodies.

Events such as the Tour de Pakistan, Tour de Khunjerab, Tour de Galyat, Tour de Mehmand, Tour de Orakzai, Tour de Waziristan, and the Mahmand Bajaur Peace Cycling Gala have showcased the talent and spirit of Pakistani cyclists while promoting the country’s rich and diverse landscapes. Yet, for over a decade, this momentum was stalled by conflicts within the federation. Rival factions vying for control led to parallel cycling bodies, causing organisational paralysis and halting marquee events, including the prestigious Tour de Pakistan.

Pakistan’s rich cycling legacy includes remarkable athletes whose achievements left an indelible mark.

Wazir Ali represented Pakistan at the Olympics.

Ashiq Champion (late) won a silver medal for Pakistan in the Asian Games.

Agha Shahrukh made history by representing Pakistan in both cycling and hockey.

Rustam Khan (late) carved a prominent place in cycling with his exceptional skills.

Moazzam Khan Klair earned silver and bronze medals representing Pakistan.

The recent elections within PCF have provided a much-needed resolution to the federation’s 13-year-long dispute. Under the leadership of newly elected President Idrees Haider Khawaja and General Secretary Moazzam Khan Klair, the PCF is determined to restore Pakistan’s cycling glory.

The leadership change signifies not just an administrative shift but also a renewed focus on uniting the cycling community and fostering growth at all levels.

One of the most anticipated developments is the return of the Tour de Pakistan, slated for February 2025. This event has the potential to reignite public interest in the sport, attract sponsors, and provide a platform for local talent to compete with international cyclists.

The PCF envisions a bright future for cycling, combining grassroots development with international collaboration. Events like the Tour de Khunjerab, Tour de Islamabad, and the newly introduced provincial races such as the Tour de Mehmand, Tour de Orakzai, and Tour de Waziristan demonstrate the sport's capacity to bridge tourism and sports. Events like the Mahmand Bajaur Peace Cycling Gala aim to promote peace and harmony through sports.

With cycling’s increasing global popularity, this is a pivotal moment for Pakistan to reclaim its legacy and re-establish itself as a regional hub for competitive cycling. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with strategic vision and collective effort, the wheels of progress are ready to turn again.