YEREVAN — A ceremony unveiling the deer mascot of the international professional multi-stage cycling race “Tour of Armenia” was held near Swan Lake in Yerevan, marking the arrival of the historic competition in Armenia.

The event was attended by Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan, Armenian Cycling Federation President Ara Sadoyan, Sports Management Center Director Khoren Zargaryan, RCS Sports and Events DMCC CEO Michele Napoli, sports enthusiasts and guests.

According to the ministry, the Tour of Armenia has already attracted attention beyond the country’s borders, gaining coverage on international sports and media platforms.

Media outlets around the world are reporting on the international professional cycling race, highlighting not only the competition but also Armenia’s culture, cities and tourism potential.

From September 10 to 13, the Tour of Armenia will bring the international cycling community to Armenian roads, with the route extending through Gegharkunik, Tavush and Lori provinces, as well as Yerevan.

“The international coverage of the competition gives millions of people in different countries an opportunity to see Armenia as an attractive destination for international sporting events and tourism,” the ministry said.

Andreasyan described the Tour of Armenia as an important milestone for the country’s sporting life.

“Major international cycling is coming to Armenia,” she said, noting that for the first time in its history, Armenia is preparing to host a Class 2.2 race included on the international calendar of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

Coverage of the Tour of Armenia is expected to appear on major international platforms, including Eurosport and CNN, with additional coverage planned by Sky Sport, Sportitalia, L’Équipe and other international media outlets. Olympic cycling champion Samuel Sánchez is serving as the race’s official ambassador.

“For four days, the Tour of Armenia will be broadcast to audiences around the world. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase our country, highlight the areas through which we can increase Armenia’s tourism appeal and international visibility, and create new opportunities for economic development,” Andreasyan said.

https://massispost.com/2026/09/tour-of-armenia-draws-international-media-attention-ahead-of-historic-cycling-race/