The Tour de France is set to begin in Scotland for the first time in 2027.
The Grand Depart – the start of the course – will take place in Edinburgh for cyclists in the 114th edition of Le Tour.
As well as the men’s race, the Grand Depart of the women’s race – known as the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift – will also be in Edinburgh when both visit the UK in two years.
More details of routes for both events will be revealed in the autumn.
Three stages in each of the events will take place in Britain with Scotland, England and Wales all hosting.
This is the first time both Grand Departs will take place in the same country outside of France, with organisers expecting millions of fans to line the streets to watch.
This is also the first time part of the women’s race will take place in the UK, however the men’s competition has graced British shores twice – first in 2007 and again in 2014.
In 2007, Le Tour began in London with a prologue where there was an individual time trial. Following that, was the first stage from London to Canterbury in Kent.
Then seven years later, the UK held the first three stages – from Leeds to Harrogate, then York to Sheffield, followed by Cambridge to London.
Christian Prudhomme, general director of the Tour de France, said: “The Tour de France and the UK share a rich history, and I am delighted to bring the Grand Depart to the country in 2027.
“Britain has always welcomed the tour with enthusiasm and pride, and this collaboration across England, Scotland, and Wales promises to make the event even more special.”
Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar is the current men’s title holder, while Polish athlete Kasia Niewiadoma is the women’s.
Past UK winners have included Sir Bradley Wiggins, Geraint Thomas, and four-time Tour de France champ Chris Froome.
Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, and Miguel Indurain have won the most tours with five each. Indurain is the only man to win five consecutive tours.
The return of the Tour de France to the UK is the result of a collaborative effort from key partners – including British Cycling, UK Sport, the UK, Scottish and Welsh governments, and event stakeholders.
Simon Morton, director of events at UK Sport, said: “This will be the biggest free spectator event ever hosted in the UK, offering the public front-row access to world-class sport across villages, towns and cities.”
A landmark social impact programme will be delivered as part of the build-up to the races. Organisers hope it will tackle inactivity, improve mental wellbeing, boost economic growth and support communities to thrive.
Jon Dutton, chief executive of British Cycling, said: “This is not just about the race – it’s about creating a national moment that encourages healthier lifestyles, supports cycle tourism, and brings communities together.”
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney described it as a “tremendous honour”, while Wales’ First Minister Eluned Morgan said the events would help showcase the country as a “top international destination for cyclists”.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added the opportunity will “cement Britain’s reputation as a destination for major international sporting events”.
She said: “This will stimulate growth, attract new visitors and leave a lasting legacy for athletes and fans alike.
Source : https://news.sky.com/story/tour-de-france-returning-to-uk-in-2027-13331780
