When it comes to passion, it knows no end or retirement. This is the story of Igor Makarov, a former professional cyclist whose love for the sport continues to shape his life and impact others even decades after stepping away from the professional world.
Last February 8, at an official ceremony held in Nicosia, Cyprus, the Cyprus Cycling Federation honored Igor Makarov with the Aristeidis Konstantinidis award, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the development of cycling in the region.
The glamorous event, dedicated to the memory of Cyprus’ first Olympic gold medalist from Athens, Aristides Konstantinidis, in 1896, brought together the best of the figures in the cycling community in Cyprus. Alongside Makarov, it honored key leaders and groups who continuously work on the sport’s growth and improvement.
For Makarov, the Aristeidis Konstantinidis award from the Cyprus Cycling Federation is both an honor and a responsibility. He mentions, “Receiving this award motivates me even more. I am very grateful to Cyprus leadership and all local cycling enthusiasts. Cyprus is the best place to develop cycling. I feel that life, like cycling, is pedaling daily, making sure we go uphill. Let’s all do that together.”
From Champion Cyclist to Cycling Advocate
Igor Makarov’s cycling journey began as a young athlete in Turkmenistan. By age 16, he had already earned a spot on the USSR National Team for the World Championships, showcasing his exceptional talent. Over the years, he competed in numerous national and international events, earning the title “International Master of Sports.” However, because of some unforeseen circumstances, his professional cycling career ended in 1986.
Rather than leaving cycling behind, Igor Makarov channeled his competitive spirit into business ventures. It allowed him to maintain his connection to the sport that defined his early life.
This transition allowed him to support the sport from a different angle. In 2008, he founded Katusha, a Swiss-registered professional cycling team that competed at the highest levels of international racing. Under his leadership, Katusha became a powerhouse team, providing a platform for talented riders to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
Makarov also took on roles within global cycling organizations. Since 2011, he has served as a member of the Management Committee of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), where he advocates for fairness, safety, and development both within the sport and cycling for all initiatives.
“The lessons I learned as a professional cyclist—discipline, perseverance, strategic thinking—have been invaluable in my business career,” Makarov mentions. “But more importantly, my experiences showed me how critical proper support is for young athletes trying to realize their potential.”
Building a Cycling Destination in Cyprus
In Cyprus, where he resides, Igor Makarov has been instrumental in promoting cycling as a lifestyle. Over the past 30 years, Makarov has witnessed a considerable transformation in Cyprus’s cycling terrain. What was once a place with few cyclists on the streets has blossomed into a vibrant community of enthusiasts and a destination for cycling tourism.
Makarov has supported the Cyprus-based cycling group INEX Club in its 2024 Charity Ride, and his company, ARETI International Group, sponsored the cycling event ARETI Gran Prix Cyprus. Cypriot cycling events attract local and international talent, foster community, and showcase Limassol’s appeal as a cycling destination. These gatherings highlight both athletic skill and Cyprus’ natural beauty.
Makarov sees Cyprus’ immense potential for growth. For him, supporting these causes can significantly elevate Cyprus’ presence on the global cycling stage. He mentions, “This island has everything—natural beauty, excellent terrain for training, and passionate people. I want to see it become a hub for world-class cycling talent.”
