Al Sulaimi set for World Road Cycling Championship debut in Italy

MUSCAT: Omani para cyclist Sami bin Salim al Sulaimi will make his first appearance at the World Road Cycling Championships in Italy from May 7 to 10, 2026, marking a major step in his fast-rising international career.
Al Sulaimi, one of Oman’s leading para athletes, will compete in the individual time trial and the 60km road race, facing a strong field that includes some of the world’s top para cyclists and professional riders. He will be accompanied by his German coach Stefan Hoffmann, who has been working closely with him on endurance, race rhythm and tactical awareness ahead of the global event.
The championship represents an important milestone for the Omani rider, as it will be his first direct test against elite world-level competitors in road cycling. Beyond the result, the participation is expected to give Al Sulaimi valuable technical and tactical experience, allowing him to measure his performance against higher international standards and continue his development ahead of upcoming major competitions.
Al Sulaimi has emerged as one of the standout names in Asian para cycling after winning the Asian title for three consecutive years in 2024, 2025 and 2026. His consistency at continental level has underlined his growing potential and strengthened his status as one of the region’s most promising riders in para cycling.

The Italian championship also forms part of a broader preparation programme developed by the Oman Paralympic Committee, the athlete and his technical team to raise his physical and technical readiness for the next phase, particularly the Asian Games, which will be hosted by Japan later this year.
Dr Mansoor bin Sultan al Touqi, Chairman of the Oman Paralympic Committee, said Al Sulaimi’s participation comes within an integrated preparation plan aimed at improving his readiness for the coming assignments.
This world participation is an important preparatory station for Sami, especially as road races require high levels of endurance, focus and experience in dealing with fast race tempo and group tactics, Dr Al Touqi said.
He added that coach Hoffmann has been working to develop these aspects in Al Sulaimi’s performance, expressing hope that the rider will deliver a strong showing in his first world championship appearance.
We hope Sami will make a positive impression and continue the successful journey that has made him one of the leading names in Asian cycling in recent years. With continued support and his strong determination, he has the potential to reach more advanced levels internationally, Dr Al Touqi added.