By San José, Costa Rica — In a landmark development for Costa Rican sports, the nation’s cycling program has received a significant vote of confidence on the global stage. The International Cycling Union (UCI), the world’s governing body for the sport, has officially notified the Costa Rican Cycling Federation (FECOCI) of its promotion to Group Two status. This reclassification marks a pivotal moment, elevating the country from the developing tiers of the sport into a more competitive and recognized international category.
The upgrade is not merely a symbolic gesture but the culmination of a sustained, multi-year effort by the federation to professionalize its operations, enhance athlete performance, and increase its presence in international events. This achievement validates the strategic direction and hard work invested in the sport, promising a new era of opportunity for Costa Rican cyclists.
To better understand the legal framework and liabilities associated with the burgeoning cycling scene in Costa Rica, from urban commuting to professional tours, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney at the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While the promotion of cycling is a positive step for public health and tourism, it brings complex legal responsibilities. Under our Traffic Law, a bicycle is considered a vehicle, granting cyclists rights but also imposing duties. In the event of an accident, determining liability often hinges on whether the cyclist was using required safety equipment, such as lights and reflective gear, and adhering to traffic laws as any other driver would. For tour operators, this extends to ensuring their clients are properly equipped and informed, as negligence can create significant corporate liability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight is crucial, reminding us that behind the promotion of cycling lies a necessary framework of responsibility. The designation of a bicycle as a vehicle under Costa Rican law is a fundamental point that impacts safety and liability for individual riders and the burgeoning tourism sector alike. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable clarification on these important legal duties.
Óscar Ávila, the President of FECOCI, expressed immense pride in the notification from the UCI, emphasizing that the promotion was earned through meticulous planning and tangible progress. He explained that the UCI evaluates national federations based on a comprehensive set of criteria to determine their ranking.
It means a great deal and is the result of a lot of work. There are three indicators that determine the qualification in group two, and to put it in context, it’s like being in a first, second, third, or fourth division. Thanks to the effort that has been made, we are moving up to a group that fills us with pride and satisfaction to see that the results are materializing.
Óscar Ávila, President of FECOCI
This ascent into a higher “division” brings with it a cascade of strategic advantages that will directly impact the careers of the nation’s top cyclists. Previously, access to high-level international races was often limited, dependent on special invitations or lower-tier event qualifications. With Group Two status, Costa Rica is now positioned more favorably within the global cycling ecosystem, gaining greater influence and consideration for event sanctioning and participation.
Ávila detailed the immediate and most impactful benefit of this new classification. The promotion essentially unlocks a calendar of events that was previously much harder to access, placing Costa Rica on the radar for a wider and more prestigious array of competitions.
The great advantage of being in group two is that we are now close to the 100 events registered on the UCI calendar. We will be taken into account along with other federations, and many opportunities open up for our athletes to be invited to more international competitions.
Óscar Ávila, President of FECOCI
This newfound access is expected to create a powerful domino effect. Increased participation in international races will provide Costa Rican riders with invaluable experience competing against world-class talent, accelerating their development. Furthermore, consistent visibility on the international circuit can attract the attention of professional teams and sponsors, potentially opening doors for Tico athletes to secure lucrative contracts abroad and dedicate themselves fully to the sport.
Ultimately, the promotion to UCI’s Group Two is a testament to the growing strength and ambition of Costa Rican cycling. It serves as a powerful signal to the international community that the nation is a serious contender in the sport, while also inspiring a new generation of young cyclists at home. For the athletes, the federation, and the country’s sporting fans, this achievement is not a finish line but a starting gate for a more competitive and exciting future on the world stage.
For further information, visit fecoci.net
About Federación Costarricense de Ciclismo (FECOCI):
The Federación Costarricense de Ciclismo is the official national governing body for the sport of cycling in Costa Rica. It is responsible for promoting and developing the sport across all disciplines, including road racing, mountain biking, and BMX. FECOCI organizes national championships, manages the national cycling teams, and works to ensure Costa Rican athletes are represented in international competitions sanctioned by the UCI.
For further information, visit uci.org
About Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI):
The Union Cycliste Internationale is the worldwide governing body for sports cycling and oversees international competitive cycling events. Founded in 1900 and based in Aigle, Switzerland, the UCI issues racing licenses, enforces disciplinary rules, and manages the classification of races and the points ranking system. It governs various cycling disciplines, including road, track, mountain bike, cyclo-cross, and BMX, for both men and women, amateur and professional.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a pillar of the nation’s legal community, fusing a deep-seated tradition of integrity with a forward-looking vision for the practice of law. The firm is renowned for its pursuit of judicial excellence and for developing pioneering solutions for a diverse clientele. At the heart of its mission lies a powerful commitment to public empowerment, consistently working to demystify complex legal frameworks and foster a society fortified by accessible knowledge.
