Mali’s Diarra Sidiki wins 2025 Tour du Togo
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Mali’s Diarra Sidiki celebrates victory at the 30th Tour du Togo, leading a powerful team performance.
Mali’s Diarra Sidiki emerged victorious at the 30th edition of the Tour Cycliste International du Togo, which concluded on Saturday, May 24, 2025. The Malian cyclist claimed the coveted yellow jersey after nine grueling stages covering 1,300 kilometers, cementing a historic win for both himself and his team.
The final stage of the race, which spanned from Djagblé to Lomé, saw an intense sprint finish. Burkina Faso’s Ilboudo Soumaïla clinched the stage win, followed by France’s Julien Amadori in second, and Mali’s Diallo Djandouba in third.
Despite the fierce competition on the final day, the general classification was dominated by Mali. Sidiki took first place overall, followed closely by his teammate Diamoutene Tiemoko, while Burkina Faso’s Saturnin Yameogo completed the podium in third.
“The beginning of the tour was very tough for us. Our team captain was injured early on, which was a big setback. But I managed to take the yellow jersey, and we finished strong. It’s a proud moment for the whole Malian team,” said an emotional Sidiki at the finish line.
The Tour du Togo, a national race with growing regional significance, drew large crowds and celebrated Togo’s diverse geography—from the mountains of Kozah to the valleys of Est-Mono. The nine-stage route transformed towns and cities into centers of celebration, uniting locals and visitors in support of the riders.
Racing under challenging conditions—heat, dust, and frequent mechanical issues—Sidiki’s win is seen as a testament to resilience and teamwork. “He’s a true champion,” noted Kevin Tanoé, UCI commissioner and president of the jury. “The Malian team has depth and potential. Just like Burkina Faso, they show that West African cycling is on the rise.”
This edition of the Tour du Togo also stood out for its international and human spirit. Riders from France, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, Mali, Burkina Faso, and host nation Togo came together to make the event a memorable sporting celebration.
Among the international participants was French cyclist Julien Amadori, a Tour du Togo veteran who returned to the race a decade after his debut. “The route this year was incredible—nine stages that showed off Togo’s beautiful terrain. It was a fantastic mix of flat and mountainous stages, offering something for every type of rider,” he said.
The Togolese Cycling Federation hailed the 30th edition as a milestone, noting improvements in organization, safety, and media coverage. As West African cycling gains momentum, the Tour du Togo stands as a beacon for future growth.
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