RRI.CO.ID, Riau – The international sporting event "Tour de Bintan 2026" is scheduled to take place August 21–23. The event is expected to attract 700 cyclists from many countries.

Preparations to ensure the success of this sports tourism event are already underway. The Governor of the Riau Islands, Ansar Ahmad, stated that the 2026 Tour de Bintan serves as an effective tool for promoting tourism.

“The Tour de Bintan is not just an international sporting event, but also a highly effective tool for promoting tourism,” Governor Ansar, conveyed while chairing the Preparatory Meeting for the 2026 Tour de Bintan at the Regional Government Building in Tanjung Pinang on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

This year, the Tour de Bintan features a variety of race categories open to partici pants of all skill levels. The main category in the spotlight is the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 1.2 Point Race, an official UCI race that awards international ranking points to its participants. Additionally, there are the Gran Fondo Classic (150 kilometers), Gran Fondo Century (100 kilometers), Gran Fondo Challenge (70 kilometers), Gran Fondo Discovery (45 kilometers), and a 17-kilometer Individual Time Trial.

The 2026 Tour de Bintan will be held in the Lagoi Bay area at Bintan Resorts, Bintan Regency. Participants will traverse a route showcasing the distinctive tropical scenery of Bintan Island, ranging from coastal areas and villages to forest edges.

COO of Bintan Resorts Cakrawala, Abdul Wahab, stated that the Tour de Bintan is one of the flagship events that has proven over the years to attract both domestic and international tourists to Bintan Island.

“This event holds strategic value in expanding Bintan Island’s exposure to the international market, reflecting the region’s readiness to host global events, while simultaneously strengthening Bintan’s image as a destination for active lifestyles and leisure through collaboration between the government, the private sector, and the sports community,” he said.