Inspired by a belief that hope should be visible, shared, and actionable, Cycle Against Cancer was born to shift the narrative around cancer and empower those affected by it.
April 2026: Cycle Against Cancer has announced an endurance cycling challenge spanning 3,333 kilometres and over 54,000 metres of elevation from Barcelona to Paris beginning 1 July 2026. The initiative will bring together 13 riders for a 25-days journey across Spain and France to raise awareness and vital funds for Al Jalila Foundation, which plays a vital role in enabling Dubai Healthโs vision to advance health for humanity through the integration of care, learning, discovery, and giving.
Departing from Barcelona on 1 July 2026, the route is a physically demanding long-distance cycling journey designed to test endurance, resilience, and teamwork, the challenge reflects the scale of what the riders aim to achieve: proving that even the most difficult battles can be faced and overcome, while spreading hope to those impacted by cancer.
At its core, Cycle Against Cancer is about people: riders, survivors, families, caregivers, and supporters connected through lived experience. The team includes cancer survivors, business leaders, and members of the UAE cycling community, many riding in honour of loved ones affected by the disease.
At the heart of the initiative is founder Guido De Wilde, a stage 4 colon cancer survivor and long-standing supporter of Al Jalila Foundation. Now 68, Guidoโs journey is one of resilience and purpose. Having previously raised significant funds for cancer patients, he returns with this challenge to inspire others and demonstrate that life after cancer can be lived with strength and meaning.
โI started Cycle Against Cancer to give people hope, especially those who are told there is none,โ said Guido De Wilde. โCancer affects families everywhere. This initiative exists to transform endurance into action and to remind people that support, strength, and hope remain within reach.โ
The initiative aims to raise vital funds for Al Jalila Foundation to support cancer care programmes and amplify impact across the UAE. Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said:
โAt Al Jalila Foundation, we support initiatives that translate awareness into tangible impact and advance health for humanity. Cycle Against Cancer demonstrates how community solidarity and shared purpose can drive meaningful support for patients, research, and access to care.โ
