Honoring Champions and Advancing the Future of Cycling in Cyprus

The Cyprus Cycling Federation hosted its annual Cycling Federation Awards on February 7, 2025, recognizing the outstanding achievements of cyclists, clubs, and schools across the country. The prestigious event celebrated excellence in cycling, honored key contributors to the sport, and reinforced Cyprus’s growing influence in the global cycling community.

Named in honor of Aristides Konstantinidis, Cyprus’ first Olympic gold medalist from the 1896 Athens Olympics, the awards ceremony brought together leading figures in the cycling world.

A Celebration of Cycling Talent in Cyprus

The 2024 Cyprus Cycling Federation Awards highlighted remarkable performances in road racing, mountain biking, and downhill cycling, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments. The event underscored the federation’s commitment to developing cycling as both a competitive sport and a lifestyle choice.

Among the distinguished guests were:

• Giorgos Papanastasiou, Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry
• Giottis Ioannides, General Secretary of the Cyprus Olympic Committee
• Igor Makarov, Member of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Management Committee
• Vladimir Petsas, Representative of the European Cycling Union
• Charis Filipidis, Cyprus Sports Organization

Top Honors and Prestigious Awards

The Aristides Konstantinidis Award, one of the night’s highest honors, was presented to:

• Andri Christoforou – Recognized for her dedication and impact in professional cycling
• Konstantina Georgiou – Honored for her contributions to the sport
• Igor Makarov – Acknowledged for his long-standing support and investment in the growth of cycling in Cyprus
• Municipality of Lefkoniko – Recognized for promoting cycling initiatives in the region

The Best Club of the Year award went to APOL (ΑΠΟΕΛ), while Agios Mnason School was named Best School of the Year for its exceptional work in developing young cycling talents.

Andreas Miltiadis was named Best Male Athlete of the Year, and Andri Christoforou was awarded Best Female Athlete of the Year.

These awards reflect a remarkable year for Cyprus cycling, with local athletes achieving significant success in national and international competitions, including the Paris Olympics 2024.

Igor Makarov’s Enduring Impact on Cyprus Cycling

One of the event’s highlights was the presence of Igor Makarov, who played a dual role as both an award recipient and presenter. As a UCI Management Committee Member and long-time supporter of Cyprus cycling, Makarov has invested significantly in the sport’s growth and continues to promote cycling initiatives in the region.

Makarov has been instrumental in funding cycling infrastructure in Cyprus, supporting young athletes through sponsorship programs and training initiatives, and backing international cycling events such as the ARETI Gran Prix Cyprus, which brought together 140 professional and amateur cyclists in Limassol.

Makarov emphasized the importance of such events in fostering cycling culture in Cyprus, stating that they recognize individual achievements while also strengthening the country’s growing cycling community.

Government and Industry Support for Cycling Growth

The presence of high-profile government officials at the event emphasized the growing role of cycling in Cyprus’s sports and sustainability policies.

Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry, Giorgos Papanastasiou, congratulated the winners and highlighted how cycling promotes a healthier lifestyle while fostering sustainability.

Charis Philippides, representative of the Cyprus Athletic Organization, and Giottis Ioannides, General Secretary of the Cyprus Olympic Committee, also praised the athletes and reaffirmed their support for the continued expansion of cycling programs in Cyprus.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Cycling in Cyprus

As the Cyprus Cycling Federation continues to build upon its success in 2024, the focus remains on developing young talent, improving infrastructure, and increasing international participation. Key priorities for 2025 and beyond include expanding cycling programs in schools and youth clubs, hosting more international cycling events to attract global talent, and enhancing training facilities to support competitive athletes.

The event concluded with a strong message of community, growth, and sustainability, reaffirming the federation’s mission to make Cyprus a leading hub for cycling tourism and competition.

For a complete list of winners, visit the official Cyprus Cycling Federation website.