The incident occurred during the final stage of the Iraqi National Championship. The race featured over 20 cycling clubs representing the capital Baghdad and other provinces.

In footage shared online, the cyclist had built a safe lead and was rapidly approaching the finish line. Upon realizing the finish line was near, he sat upright and raised both hands in a triumphant celebration.

However, the joy was short-lived. Within seconds, the cyclist lost balance and fell flat on the track while the pursuing pack was approaching at high speed.

The crash caused the cyclist’s bike to break in half, forcing other riders to swerve to avoid him. Fortunately, the cyclist did not appear to be seriously injured.

This premature celebration cost him the race victory. With more humility and composure, he likely would have secured first place.

According to a statement from the Iraqi Cycling Federation, Club Al-Saniya won the overall individual youth category over a 45km course. Club Al-Nidhal came in second, followed by Club Erbil in third. However, the most memorable moment of the race was undoubtedly this chaotic finish.

Vietnam’s national cycling team received bad news ahead of the 2025 Asian Road Cycling Championship when their bikes burned down completely.

Erbil Citadel

The **Erbil Citadel** is an ancient fortified settlement in the heart of Erbil, Iraq, believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with origins dating back to at least 5,000 years. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, it served as a strategic and cultural hub for various empires, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Ottomans. Today, it stands as a symbol of Kurdish heritage, featuring traditional architecture and ongoing preservation efforts.

Baghdad

Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, was founded in the 8th century by the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mansur and became a major center of learning, culture, and trade during the Islamic Golden Age. Known for its iconic Round City design and the House of Wisdom, it was a hub for scholars, scientists, and philosophers. Despite invasions and conflicts over centuries, Baghdad remains a historically significant city with rich cultural heritage.

Iraqi National Championship

The **Iraqi National Championship** is the top-tier football (soccer) league in Iraq, organized by the Iraq Football Association. Established in **1974**, it features clubs from across the country and has historically been dominated by teams like **Al-Shorta, Al-Zawraa, and Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya**. The league has faced challenges due to political instability but remains a key part of Iraq’s sporting culture.

Al-Saniya Club

The Al-Saniya Club is a historic social and cultural club located in Kuwait, known for its role in fostering community gatherings and cultural activities. Established during the mid-20th century, it has been a prominent venue for social events, sports, and traditional Kuwaiti heritage. The club reflects Kuwait’s rich cultural history and remains a cherished institution for locals.

Al-Nidhal Club

Al-Nidhal Club is a cultural and social club in Iraq, known for its role in promoting sports, arts, and community activities. Established in the mid-20th century, it became a gathering place for intellectuals, athletes, and artists, reflecting Iraq’s vibrant cultural scene. While its prominence has fluctuated over the years due to political changes, it remains a symbol of Iraqi heritage and social engagement.

Erbil Club

Erbil Club, located in Erbil, the capital of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, is one of the oldest and most prestigious sports and social clubs in the area. Established in 1963, it has played a significant role in promoting football and other sports, as well as cultural activities, in the region. The club is a symbol of local pride and has a strong fan base, reflecting Erbil’s vibrant community and sporting heritage.

2025 Asian Road Cycling Championship

The **2025 Asian Road Cycling Championship** is an upcoming elite cycling event where top athletes from across Asia will compete in road race and time trial disciplines. Organized by the Asian Cycling Confederation, the championship promotes regional talent and has been a key platform for cyclists since its inception in 1963. The 2025 edition will showcase challenging routes, cultural highlights, and emerging stars in Asian cycling.

Vietnam’s national cycling team

Vietnam’s national cycling team has grown in prominence in recent years, competing in regional and international events such as the Southeast Asian Games and the Asian Cycling Championships. The team reflects Vietnam’s developing sports culture and has achieved notable success, including medals in regional competitions. While cycling is not as historically rooted in Vietnam as in some Western nations, the sport’s popularity is rising, supported by improved infrastructure and training programs.