Imagine the roar of the crowd. The Rio Olympic Velodrome stands before us. This impressive structure hosted the track cycling events during the 2016 Summer Olympics. It also served the 2016 Summer Paralympics.
The Rio Olympic Velodrome wasn’t the first cycling venue here. An older velodrome existed. But the International Cycling Union deemed it unsuitable for the Olympics. Pillars obstructed views and cyclists couldn’t reach high speeds. Upgrading the old venue would cost as much as building a new one. So, the original Barra Velodrome was torn down.
Construction of the Rio Olympic Velodrome began. British and Brazilian firms advised on the design. Tecnosolo S.A won the contract. The budget was R$136.9 million excluding track installation.
The construction faced many hurdles. There were delays, poor working conditions, and financial difficulties. The Rio Olympic Velodrome faced cost overruns like other Olympic velodromes since the 1960s.
In April 2015, construction was temporarily suspended. Brazil’s Ministry of Labor and Employment cited safety concerns. They noted the absence of collective protection and the risk of falls.
Originally scheduled test events were rescheduled. The delay was due to the installation of the velodrome’s track. The Siberian-sourced timber’s poor condition was to blame. It could lead to warping and bending.
Brian Cookson then UCI President expressed concerns. He stated completing the venue in time was a challenge. He warned there was no plan B.
The test event was eventually canceled. The venue remained untested until the Olympics. Organizers cited logistical problems. The wood arrived late. Rio’s high humidity meant the surface couldn’t be laid quickly.
The venue’s construction contractor filed for bankruptcy. The municipal government canceled the contract. Engetécnica replaced Tecnosolo. By late May, the track was installed. Training days were set for late June.
The Rio Olympic Organizing Committee took possession on June 26, 2016. The first training events took place the previous day. State prosecutors inquired about the selection of Engetécnica. They also investigated subcontractor company Zadar. The issue was contracts without a proper bidding process. The city said there wasn’t time for bidding.
After the Olympics, the Rio Olympic Velodrome faced challenges. There were two roof fires and storm damage. High costs led to underuse. However, the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships were held here. In 2022 a proper competition was held.
The Rio Olympic Velodrome track is made from Siberian pine. It’s considered the fastest surface for track cycling. The venue has a capacity of 5000.
During the 2016 Summer Olympics records were broken here. Jason Kenny set a record in the Men’s sprint. The Great Britain team set records in team pursuit and team sprint. Becky James set a record in the Women’s sprint. The Great Britain team also set a record in the Women’s team pursuit.