Preparations are underway for the annual MTN Khemani Road Classic, scheduled to take place in Mankayane, Eswatini, this Saturday, September 26. The premier regional cycling event has attracted strong international interest, with elite riders from South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Namibia confirmed to participate alongside local talent. The event, now in its 12th edition, has built a reputation as a regional powerhouse, with over 100 international riders competing in the previous edition.
According to the Federation of Cycling Lesotho, six riders from Lesotho have already secured their spots in the competition. Cyclists will compete over three distinct distances: 30km, 60km, and the flagship 100km main event, catering to everyone from promising amateurs to seasoned pros. The event is expected to draw a bumper crowd of around 250 spectators, creating an electric atmosphere in Mankayane.
The MTN Khemani Cycling Club Secretary General, Nomfundo Jiyane, confirmed that general registration is now strictly closed, with no late entries accepted. The flagship event is backed by a substantial E350 000 sponsorship package from title sponsors MTN Eswatini. The 2026 edition was officially unveiled last month at MTN headquarters in a high-profile ceremony attended by Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima, alongside MTN Eswatini CEO Jerry Soko and dignitaries from the Ezulwini and Mankayane town boards.
Last year’s edition saw South Africa’s Fly Coom Collective execute a tactical masterclass, sweeping the elite men’s 100km podium. Wijan Nieuwoudt snatched victory in 2:29:38 to claim the E5 800 top prize, narrowly beating teammate Keanan Roodt in a thrilling sprint finish. Kent Main rounded out the podium a second later. Eswatini’s Kwanele Jele put in a valiant ride to finish as the top local competitor, crossing seventh in 2:36:53.
With international squads descending once more, local contenders face a stern test to keep the trophy on home soil this weekend. The Khemani Road Classic has consistently delivered exciting competition, with punishing climbs, technical descents, and treacherous headwinds pushing cyclists to their limits. As the event approaches, cycling enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating another thrilling competition.
MTN Eswatini has been a long-standing supporter of the event, providing significant sponsorship and resources to ensure its success. The company’s involvement has been instrumental in elevating the event’s profile and attracting top talent from across the region. As the competition heats up, all eyes will be on the cyclists as they battle for supremacy on the challenging course.
As the MTN Khemani Road Classic prepares to get underway, cycling fans in Eswatini and beyond are eagerly anticipating an exciting competition. With a strong field of international and local riders, the event promises to deliver thrilling action and drama. The MTN Khemani Road Classic has solidified its position as a premier regional cycling event, and this year’s edition is set to be just as compelling.
Key points
- Elite cyclists from South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Namibia are set to compete in the MTN Khemani Road Classic in Eswatini this Saturday.
