Harshita Jakhar Becomes First Indian Woman to Feature at Tour de France Femmes
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Indian cyclist Harshita Jakhar has scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman to feature at the Tour de France Femmes, the women's edition of the world's most prestigious cycling race.
The 19-year-old from Rajasthan participated in the ceremonial start of Stage 2 in Aigle, Switzerland, where she led a group of riders during a 4.5-km neutralised ride ahead of the main race.
Selected Under UCI Talent Programme
Harshita was among eight cyclists selected for the UCI World Cycling Talent Programme, an initiative designed to provide promising riders from developing cycling nations with exposure to elite international competition.
The ceremonial ride also featured cyclists from Afghanistan, Algeria, Chile, Ethiopia, Namibia and Uganda.
The Tour de France Femmes began in Lausanne on August 1 and will conclude in Nice on August 9.
UCI President Praises Harshita
Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) President David Lappartient congratulated Harshita on the milestone and expressed confidence that she would one day return to compete in the main race.
He said her selection reflects the potential of young cyclists emerging through the UCI World Cycling Talent Programme.
Rising Star of Indian Cycling
Harshita trains at the Sports Authority of India's National Centre of Excellence in Patiala under the guidance of her father and coach, Rakesh Jakhar, a former Indian cyclist who represented the country at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
She rose to prominence after winning three gold medals at the 2025 Khelo India Youth Games. Her achievements also include one silver and two bronze medals at the 2024 Asian Junior Cycling Championships.
Harshita's participation marks a significant milestone for Indian cycling and offers the young rider valuable international exposure as she aims to compete at the highest level of the sport.
