For a second year running UCI Gran Fondo Rio de Janiero, scheduled on 2 May, is in trouble – pandemic trouble.

Brazilian cities and states, including Rio de Janiero, have been imposing a new round of lockdown restrictions in a bid to contain the worst surge of Covid-19 cases in the world.

Brazil, whose death toll passed 254,000 yesterday, is struggling to deal with a rising tide of infections that has pushed intensive care units close to the brink of collapse while government officials blame one-another by pointing fingers.

The net results has the Brazilian Cycling Federation cancelling events for the foreseeable future, IRONMAN Brazil Triathlon on 20 May moving to November and even the world famous Carnival party in Rio shutting down.

The UCI and Gran Fondo Rio de Janiero, South America’s only 2021 Gran Fondo World Championship qualifying race, have not commented on the impact of the new lockdown regulations, but are still allowing riders to register.

For riders still thinking about registering, keep in mind the race does not offer refunds for any reason in the (increasing likely) case of  cancellation as noted in the UCI Gran Fondo Rio 2021 Rulebook:

“15. ADDITIONAL GENERAL PROVISIONS:  C. The athlete is aware that the amount paid will not be refunded in case of cancellation or non-participation in the event;”

Worldwide Gran Fondo and Gravel Event Calendar