SRINAGAR: Adil Teli, a professional cyclist from Kashmir, has secured a place in the 2025 UCI Gran Fondo World Series, set to be held in Victoria, Australia, from October 16 to 19. The 26-year-old Kashmir cyclist earned his spot after an impressive performance at the Spinneys Dubai Cycling Challenge, where he competed against over 400 top international cyclists, ETV Bharat reported.
Teli first gained national recognition in 2021 when he set the record for the fastest bicycle journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, covering 3,600 kilometres in just eight days, one hour, and 39 minutes. The feat highlighted his endurance, determination, and mental resilience, qualities that continue to define his cycling career.
In Dubai, Teli demonstrated his tactical skills and ability to sustain high speeds over long distances. The Spinneys Dubai Cycling Challenge, with its flat but fast course, tested riders on aerodynamics, power, and race strategy. His strong showing secured him a place among the world’s best amateur cyclists in the prestigious UCI Gran Fondo World Series. To qualify, riders must finish among the top 25 per cent in their age category in an official Gran Fondo event.
“This is a dream come true. To represent India at the world level is an honour, and I am determined to deliver my best at the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships,” Teli told ETV Bharat. “The ride so far has not been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding. My priority now is to work hard and refine my approach to compete against some of the best riders in the world.”
Teli holds two Guinness World Records for his long-distance cycling feats. In March 2021, he set the record for the fastest bicycle journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. In September 2022, he broke another record by completing the 475-kilometre Manali-Leh route, which involves crossing five high-altitude Himalayan passes, in 29 hours, 18 minutes, and 21 seconds—six hours faster than the previous record.
At the UCI Gran Fondo World Series in Australia, Teli will take on a demanding circuit along the Great Ocean Road, facing top international cyclists in a test of endurance and skill.
