Historic Tour de France & Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift grand Départ Confirmed for UK in 2027
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The United Kingdom will host the starting legs of both the men’s Tour de France and the women’s Tour de france Femmes avec Zwift in 2027, marking a landmark moment as the first time both races will begin in the same country outside of France.
The announcement signals a meaningful win for british cycling and is expected to deliver a considerable economic boost to the nation. The races are projected to be the most accessible major sporting spectacle ever held in Britain, with organizers aiming to make the event within an hour’s drive for 60% of the UK population.
Men’s Tour de France: A Scottish start and Welsh Finish
The men’s race will commence in Edinburgh on Friday, July 2nd, 2027. The opening stage will culminate in Carlisle, setting the stage for a challenging journey northward. Subsequent stages will see riders navigate from Keswick to Liverpool, before the UK leg concludes with a traverse of Wales, beginning in Welshpool and finishing in Cardiff.
Women’s tour de France: northern England and a London Finale
The Tour de France Femmes avec zwift will begin in leeds on Friday, July 30th, 2027. The route will challenge riders as they cross the Pennines to Manchester, then return to Sheffield via the scenic Peak District. The competition will reach its climax with a grand finale in London on Sunday, August 1st, 2027.A nationwide “Tour de Skies” event, featuring illuminated host locations, celebrated the route reveal.
Economic Impact and Government Support
The Department for culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) forecasts that hosting the races will inject £150 million into the UK economy. To support the delivery and long-term legacy of the events, the UK Government has committed £32 million in funding. “Together the races will be the most accessible major sporting spectacle ever held in Britain,” a senior official stated.
Alongside the sporting spectacle, the joy social impact program has been launched. This initiative aims to address inactivity and promote mental wellbeing across the UK. British Cycling has also announced plans to recruit 7,000 volunteers to assist with the operational demands of the races.
A Testament to Partnership and Enthusiasm
Christian prudhomme, Director of the Tour de France (ASO), emphasized the UK’s longstanding passion for the race, stating, “The UK has always welcomed the Tour with passion and pride, and the route details we are revealing today reflect the beauty and diversity of Britain’s terrain. Bringing both Grand Départs here is a testament to the strength of our partnership with British cycling and the enthusiasm of the UK.”
Jon Dutton, Chief Executive of British Cycling, added, “The grand Départs in 2027 are about so much more than six unforgettable stages of racing – it’s about unlocking lasting change for communities right across Britain. Through Joy – our collective, game-changing social impact programme – we will put opportunity, wellbeing and community pride right at the heart of this moment in sporting history.”
Simon Morton, Director of events at UK Sport, concluded, “Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of what we expect to be the biggest free-to-attend event ever to be held on these shores. Our vision was to host a massive sporting event that would genuinely thread together the countries,cities,and communities of Great Britain,and show what we can achieve when we work together.”
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