The 2025 trans-Vietnam cycling race route is nearly as long as the Tour de France
This prestigious event is expected to be one of the most challenging editions in its history, pushing riders to their limits with a demanding route across Vietnam’s diverse landscapes.
A Grueling Journey Across Vietnam
The 2025 trans-Vietnam cycling race route is nearly as long as the Tour de France
The race will begin on April 3 in Tuyen Quang, a historically significant province closely associated with the Tan Trao historical site. From there, cyclists will head to Hanoi, continue along the Central Vietnam coastline, climb through the Central Highlands, descend to the South-Central Coast, traverse the Mekong Delta, and ultimately finish in Ho Chi Minh City on April 30—a date of great historical significance in Vietnam.
Throughout 25 stages, the riders will conquer eight major mountain passes, including the Khanh Le Pass, located between Da Lat and Nha Trang. This climb is expected to be the most formidable challenge of the race, as it is the only Category 1 pass on the route. Other notable stages include a 24 km team time trial in Cua Lo (Nghe An) and five circuit races in major cities. The longest stage of the race, stretching 197.5 km from Vinh (Nghe An) to Dong Hoi (Quang Binh), is slightly shorter than the Tour de France’s longest stage of 212 km.
Comparison of the HTV Cup route and the Tour de France 2025
“This year’s route is challenging, with continuous challenges throughout the race. We have to train intensively, focusing on technical skills and physical endurance, to compete in such a long and demanding event,” said Nguyen Tan Hoai of An Giang Cycling Team. “Additionally, teamwork and mutual support among teammates will play a crucial role in securing key victories.”
Star Riders Face Scheduling Conflicts
Schedule of stages for the Vietnam Cross-Country Cycling Race – HTV Cup 2025
As the race approaches, teams are stepping up their training efforts. However, some of the event’s biggest names may be unable to participate due to scheduling conflicts. Elite riders such as Roman Maikin (“The Wind God”), defending Yellow Jersey champion Rikunov, and defending Red Jersey champion Frolov are currently competing for professional teams in China. Since the China Road Pro Cycling League is also scheduled for April 2025, these riders may have to choose between the two prestigious events.
Despite this uncertainty, Tran Hai Trieu, a representative of the An Giang Cycling Team, remains optimistic. “We will wait until the final deadline to determine whether Rikunov or Maikin will be able to race in the HTV Cup,” he stated.
