On May 18th, 2024, the INEX Club successfully hosted its 2024 Charity Ride, dedicated to supporting the Cyprus National Cycling Team. This event brought together 80 young, talented cyclists who competed in 300 km and 150 km races under the bright, sunny skies of Limassol, Cyprus.
Among the attendees was Igor Makarov, a Cyprus national and entrepreneur who participated as a major sponsor. Makarov and other sponsors supported the race by providing funds for bicycles and other essential equipment for the Cypriot Cycling Federation’s cyclists, which was crucial in helping these athletes reach their full potential.
In particular, Igor Makarov mentions, “Many thanks to the organizers and the President of Cyprus Cycling Federation for the continuous support in developing cycling in Cyprus. Our charity initiatives are not only about helping those who need it but also about developing cycling for all globally. This is something I am personally committed to doing as a former professional cyclist and a member of the UCI Management Committee.”
However, as a former professional cyclist, for Makarov, the event was more than just a financial contribution. It was a moment of reflection on the life of an athlete, the sport of cycling, and the broader implications of philanthropy, resonating deeply with his own experiences.
Makarov envisions a bright future for the cycling community, starting in Cyprus and extending globally. He believes that with continued support and investment, these young athletes can develop their skills, achieve their dreams, and inspire the next generation of cyclists.
When Philanthropy and Business Meet
The support provided by national federations and the commitment of organizations like INEX Club demonstrates that the future of cycling for all is in capable hands. Makarov believes that with these platforms providing proper training, resources, and opportunities, the sport and its followers can grow and flourish, creating a thriving and influential cycling community in Cyprus and worldwide.
As a Cyprus citizen, Makarov’s attendance and sponsorship of events like the 2024 INEX Charity Ride mark the beginning of what he envisions as strategic partnerships to advance cycling in Cyprus. He is committed to fostering local talent and enhancing the tools needed for the sport to thrive.
The former cyclist mentions, “I have been living here in Cyprus for over 30 years and saw for myself a positive change in the culture and safety of cycling in Cyprus. So we try not only to provide funding as part of our philanthropic strategy but also make contributions using our experience and expertise.”
Attending the INEX Charity Ride is not Makarov’s first time supporting cycling development. Apart from his initiatives at the UCI Management Committee, for over a few decades, he has also donated hundreds of millions of dollars from his businesses to various charity projects, including the development of cycling globally.
For many years, Makarov sponsored federations of Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC) and local charity rides such as “Tour de Broward,” “The Hublot Best Buddies Challenge: Miami,” and many others. He also founded and was the main sponsor of the Swiss-registered professional multinational cycling team Katusha Team, which competed as a UCI ProTeam / WorldTour team from 2009 to 2019.
From the 2024 INEX Club Charity Ride, Makarov looks forward to more opportunities to share his resources and knowledge and continuously advance cycling from Cyprus to the world.