A new beginning does not always mean leaving the same place behind, but  rather embracing a fresh and different concept, much like Tour de Bintan event. An iconic  international cycling race in Bintan Island, which was previously held in Riau Island Province since  2009, is now set to make its return. 

“2026 marks the transformation of Tour de Bintan. With its new visual identity, the logo now  appears fresher, more dynamic, and expressive. The logo signifies the beginning of a new chapter  for event Tour de Bintan, with Bintan Resorts as the destination, host of the event, and event  organizer partnering with Trifactor,” said Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer of Bintan Resorts in a press conference in Jakarta recently. 

He added that the event has become one of Bintan Resort’s flagship events, which over the years  has consistently proven its ability to attract both domestic and international visitors to Bintan  Island. According to him, the event holds strategic value in expanding the island’s exposure to  the international market. It also reflects the destination’s readiness and capability to host  international-scale events, while further strengthening Bintan’s image as an active lifestyle and  leisure destination through collaboration between the partners, government, sponsors, cycling  organization and sports communities. 

Abdul Wahab also expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the government of Bintan  Regency, Riau Islands Province and the International Cycling Federation (ICF) for their guidance  and support towards the organization of this event. He also extended his sincere thanks to Bintan  Resorts Council, Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach Hotel by IHG, Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach  by IHG, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan Lagoon, and Bintan Lagoon Life Style Retreat as  supporting sponsors for their contribution in supporting the successful organization of Tour de  Bintan 2026. 

“On behalf of Trifactor, we are proud to collaborate with Bintan Resorts in bringing back Tour de  Bintan. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to elevating the sport and uniting the  cyclist’s community through the greater Trifactor’s family. Together, we aim to deliver a world class racing experience set against the stunning backdrop of Bintan Resorts’ destination, and we  look forward to welcoming cyclists from across the region and around the world to be part of the  return of this iconic event,” said Elvin Ting, Founder of Trifactor.

In line with this renewed spirit, Tour de Bintan 2026 will feature various race categories designed  for cyclists across different experience levels. The event will take place from 21 – 23 August  onwards, with the main race village exclusively centered at Lagoi Bay, a heartbeat of Bintan  Resorts that offers an ideal setting for both competition and leisure. 

“One of the new highlights introduced this year is UCI 1.2 point race. A UCI Point Race is an official  cycling race registered under the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), where riders can earn points  toward their international rankings based on their race results, “stated Raja Azmizal Usman, the  lead event coordinator. 

In addition to the new highlight, various race categories are designed to cater to cyclists of  different skill levels and preferences. “Starting from the highly challenging professional  competitive category of Gran Fondo Classic 150km with its long-distance routes, Gran Fondo  Century 100km, Gran Fondo Challenge 70km, Gran Fondo Discovery 45km, all the way to  Individual Time Trial (ITT) 17km,” he further explained. According to him, beginner participants  who wish to experience racing in a structured, fair, and more approachable environment will also  have the opportunity to take part. Participants across all categories from beginners to athletes  with competitive-level abilities, will equally enjoy the cycling race alongside the tropical natural  beauty of Bintan Island, passing along coastlines, local villages, and forest outskirts throughout  Bintan Regency. The smooth and well-maintained asphalt roads, combined with safe and  comfortable conditions, allow participants to maintain their rhythm and build speed consistently  with minimal traffic disruption, while enjoying clean air free from vehicle pollution. 

The combination of tropical beauty and race tactics across a course with varied terrain contours  creates a unique challenge, not steep enough to force riders to stop, yet not flat enough to truly  rest from pedaling. Most importantly, this will be more than just a race. It is a moment of self achievement, where participants can put their training routines to the test and discover every  reason to sign up for Tour de Bintan, while also enjoying a weekend getaway with family and  friends. 

Participants will also enjoy a range of event entitlements and specially curated travel bundle  packages upon registration, including hotel accommodation and transportation options. Raja  Azmi elaborated that in terms of accessibility, participants from Jakarta may travel to Tanjung  Pinang via direct flights or transit connections through Batam, while participants from Singapore  can reach Bintan through direct ferry services from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bandar  Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal at Bintan Resorts. More information is available on the event’s  official website and social media platforms. 

“Ever since I first came to Bintan Island in 2012, I have always felt that the character of its terrain  has a unique appeal. The combination of hilly and rolling roads presents a technical challenge,  especially for cyclists who excel in short climbs and undulating sections, while the longer  stretches provide sprinters with the perfect opportunity to truly test their power,” remarked  Chaidir Akbar, the brand ambassador of the event.

“What makes it even more enjoyable is that after going through an intense race, we can  immediately recover while enjoying the calm atmosphere of the resorts. Bintan Resorts is not  just a short getaway destination, but has become like a playground for those who want to cycle  at their maximum performance,” he added. 

“The Bintan Regency Government and the Bintan Office of Culture and Tourism enthusiastically  welcome the return of Tour de Bintan. To this day, sport tourism remains one of the key  attractions in bringing group visitors to Bintan while also driving the local economy,” said Ronny  Kartika, Regional Secretary of Bintan Regency. 

Ronny further explained that with tourism trends continuing to show positive growth since the  first quarter of 2026, the Bintan Regency Government is optimistic that this year’s target of  300,000 tourist arrivals can be achieved. The return of the event is expected to further strengthen  Bintan’s position as a leading sport tourism destination that offers not only international-level  competition, but also a complete travel experience through culture, entertainment, and the  natural beauty of the destination. As part of its support for the event, the Bintan Regency  Government is also contributing operational assistance and the provision of supporting event  requirements to help ensure the event runs smoothly and successfully,” he added.