Hong Kong to stage a round of cycling track World Cup

A bid was made only last week for the HK$10 million event and the UCI responded quickly with a positive answer.

A statement from UCI said Hong Kong will host a round of the track cycling World Cup on January 16 and 17, 2016 and racing will take place at the 250-metre Hong Kong Velodrome track, which was inaugurated in December 2013.

Hong Kong Cycling Association chairman Leung Hung-tak said it would be an opportunity of a lifetime for the sport and riders.

“UCI has repeatedly requested Hong Kong to stage the event and that’s why the response came so fast,” said Leung. “This is definitely good news for the sport as we have never had an event of such class.

“The World Cup is a crucial event to obtain qualification points for the 2016 Rio Games and at the same time our riders can race against the world’s best in front of home crowds, which can further promote track cycling and help identify more talent for future development.”

The Hong Kong Velodrome, in Tseung Kwan O, cost tax payers HK$600 million. UCI has already recognised the venue for international competitions, having twice sent representatives to Hong Kong for inspections.