UK Hosts Tour de France for Men and Women in 2027
For the first time ever, both the men's and women's Tour de France will start in the same country outside France, bringing the world's biggest free sporting event to Scotland, England, and Wales. Six stages across 559 miles will pass within an hour's drive of 60% of Britain's population.
The world's most famous cycling race is coming to Britain in a historic double feature that will make professional cycling more accessible than ever before.
Edinburgh and Leeds will host the opening stages of both the men's and women's Tour de France in summer 2027. It's the first time both Grand Departs have happened in the same country outside France, and the women's race has never before started outside mainland Europe.
The men's race kicks off July 2 in Edinburgh, traveling 114 miles to Carlisle before continuing through the Lake District to Liverpool and finishing in Cardiff. The women's Tour begins July 30 in Leeds, winds through Manchester and the Peak District to Sheffield, then concludes with a London stage on August 1.
More than 900 kilometers of public roads will become the world's largest free sporting event. Officials estimate the routes will pass within an hour's drive of 60% of Britain's population, giving millions of people easy access to world-class athletes without buying a ticket.
The races will showcase Britain's stunning landscapes, from Edinburgh Castle to the Brecon Beacons. In 2014, when just three men's stages were held in England, 4.8 million people lined the streets to watch.
The Ripple Effect
The economic impact reaches far beyond race day. Government forecasts predict a £150 million boost to the UK economy, with £32 million in funding supporting the events and their lasting benefits to local communities.
British Cycling plans to recruit 7,000 volunteers to help with operations and community engagement. The organization hopes the six stages will create lasting change for communities across Britain and boost cycling's popularity nationwide.
Former world champion Lizzie Deignan called the women's race coming to the UK "a huge moment for the sport" that will inspire countless women and girls to start cycling. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the races will unite the nations and give people reason to feel proud of their communities.
From professional racing to neighborhood bike rides, this historic event promises to put Britain on two wheels.
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Based on reporting by BBC Sport
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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