Igor Makarov to Sponsor the Paphos Gran Prix Cycling Race in Cyprus

Igor Makarov, founder of ARETI International Group and a longtime supporter of international cycling, is pleased to announce his sponsorship of the Paphos Gran Prix, a two-day cycling race that will take place on April 4–5 in Paphos, Cyprus. The event brings together professional athletes, amateur cyclists, and enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond to experience competitive road cycling in one of the Mediterranean’s most scenic regions.

The Paphos Gran Prix is organized by the cycling community INEX Club and is designed to strengthen the local cycling community while providing riders with an opportunity to test themselves on challenging routes through the hills and villages of the Paphos district.

Through this sponsorship, Mr. Makarov and ARETI International Group continue their longstanding commitment to promoting cycling, supporting athletic development, and encouraging healthy lifestyles.

Supporting the Growth of Cycling in Cyprus

For Igor Makarov, cycling is not just a sport – it is a lifelong passion and an important part of his personal history. As a former professional cyclist who competed in international competitions from 1979 to 1986, Mr. Makarov understands the dedication and discipline that the sport requires.

Over the years, he has remained deeply involved in cycling. For more than a decade, Igor Makarov played an active role in the development of global cycling as a member of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Management Committee, serving until 2025. He has supported numerous initiatives to develop the sport internationally, including founding and sponsoring the Katusha, a Swiss-registered professional cycling team that competed at the highest level of world cycling until 2019. He has also supported charitable cycling events and organizations that encourage participation and youth development in the sport.

Today, as a Cyprus-based entrepreneur and founder of ARETI International Group, Mr. Makarov continues to support the growth of cycling both locally and internationally. Sponsoring events such as the Paphos Gran Prix reflects his belief that sport can inspire communities, encourage healthy lifestyles, and bring people together. For Igor Makarov, sponsoring the Paphos Gran Prix represents more than a philanthropic initiative – it reflects a personal commitment to a sport that shaped his early life.

“Cycling teaches discipline, perseverance and teamwork,” Mr. Makarov notes. “Events like the Paphos Gran Prix bring people together and inspire the next generation of athletes. I am proud to support initiatives that promote cycling in Cyprus and encourage people to live active, healthy lives.”

A Celebration of Community and Sport

Events like the Paphos Gran Prix play an important role in developing the cycling culture in Cyprus. The race is designed to attract both experienced athletes and passionate amateur cyclists, creating a welcoming environment where participants can challenge themselves and connect with the global cycling community.

Cycling events also contribute to the broader development of sports tourism in Cyprus. The island’s mild climate, varied terrain, and scenic landscapes make it an increasingly popular destination for cyclists from around the world.

By supporting initiatives such as the Paphos Gran Prix, Igor Makarov and ARETI International Group aim to help strengthen Cyprus’s position as an emerging destination for road cycling while encouraging greater participation in the sport.

About the Paphos Gran Prix

The Paphos Gran Prix is a two-day road cycling event designed to showcase the natural beauty of Cyprus while offering a demanding yet rewarding race experience for participants.

The race will take place over two stages across the Paphos region, covering mountainous terrain, traditional Cypriot villages, and scenic countryside roads.

April 4 (Stage 1)

The first stage begins near Paphos and follows a challenging route through villages such as Anarita, Nata, Kidasi, Arsos, and Mamonia, finishing near Kouklia.

• Distance: approximately 86.8 km
• Elevation gain: over 1,500 meters

This stage will test endurance and climbing ability while offering riders spectacular views of the Paphos countryside.

April 5 (Stage 2)

The second stage runs through a different set of villages and climbs toward Tsada, another iconic cycling route in the region.

• Distance: approximately 50 km
• Elevation gain: about 1,445 meters

Together, the two stages create a dynamic race format that combines endurance, strategy, and the excitement of competitive cycling. At the conclusion of the two-day event, winners will be awarded in the overall classification and across age categories.

Join the Ride

Cyclists and enthusiasts are invited to take part in the Paphos Gran Prix on April 4–5 and experience two days of challenging racing, scenic routes, and the vibrant spirit of the cycling community.

More information and registration details are available on the official event website: https://inex.club/paphosgranprix