In a significant step forward for Indian sports, the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) and Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at elevating excellence in cycling and sports education.
The MoU was formalised during a special ceremony at the Manav Rachna campus in Sector 43, Faridabad, attended by senior officials from CFI and the university, sports experts, and members of the media.
Among the dignitaries present were Mr. Maninder Pal Singh, Secretary General, CFI; Ms. Shipra Verma, Executive Member, CFI; Mr. V.N. Singh, Assistant Secretary, CFI; Mr. Nitin Arya, Sports Consultant; Mr. Amit Bhalla, Vice President, MRIIRS; Mr. Sakar Talwar, Director Sports, MRU; Mr. Agan Talwar, Sports Collaborations & New Initiatives, MRU; and Mr. Nitesh Malhotra, Head of Department Physiotherapy.
Bridging sports and education
Described as a milestone for Indian cycling, this strategic partnership aims to seamlessly integrate elite sports training with higher education. The vision is to enable Indian cyclists to pursue academic qualifications without compromising their professional careers.
Central to the collaboration is the establishment of the CFI–MRIIRS Cycling Coaching Academy, an ambitious initiative that will introduce several firsts in Indian cycling education:
- UCI-Aligned Coaching Certifications (Level 1–3)
- India’s first structured 18-month Diploma in Cycling Coaching & Sports Sciences
- Launch of the SafeCycle program to raise safety and awareness among cyclists
- Career pathways for roles such as coaches, commissaires, mechanics, and event directors
- Facilitation of international exposure and regional collaborations
Building a sustainable ecosystem
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Amit Bhalla, Vice President of MRIIRS, called the collaboration “a transformative step toward building a sustainable and globally competitive cycling ecosystem in India.” He outlined plans for scholarships, eligibility criteria, and rolling out programs from upcoming academic sessions.
By combining CFI’s technical expertise and international affiliations with MRIIRS’s academic strength and sports science infrastructure, the partnership aims to create a professional, research-driven environment for aspiring cyclists and sports professionals.
Mr. Maninder Pal Singh, Secretary General, CFI, described the agreement as “a visionary step towards integrating education with elite sports training.”
“At the Cycling Federation of India, our mission is to nurture world-class talent. This collaboration will help build a strong academic and scientific foundation for Indian cyclists. Together, we aim to set a new benchmark in cycling education, coaching, and capacity building,” he said.
In his words, this partnership is “more than just an agreement it is a bold stride toward establishing India as a global hub for cycling education, training, and talent development.”
With structured education programs, technical certifications, and a focus on international standards, the CFI–MRIIRS MoU marks a critical evolution in India’s approach to sports education. Beyond developing elite athletes, it promises to create career pathways across the sport from coaching to event management helping build a holistic and globally competitive cycling ecosystem in India.
