In a landmark announcement, the Tour de France Hommes & the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will both commence their 2027 editions in the United Kingdom. This represents the first occasion that both the men’s and women’s Grand Départs are being hosted simultaneously outside France, after Rotterdam because the first non-French Grand Départ of the Tour de France Femmes last year.
England, Scotland, and Wales will each stage part of these world-famous races, with millions expected to line the streets, making this the largest free-to-attend sporting event ever held in Great Britain. Notably, this will also be the debut UK appearance of the Tour de France Femmes, presenting a major step forward for women’s professional cycling in the country. Especially after the demise of RideLondon Classique this season.
Photo Credit: GettyThe 2027 Tour de France Hommes will start in Edinburgh, Scotland, though exact details of subsequent stages, including the route for the Tour de France Femmes, will be unveiled later this autumn. Some rumours have suggested Leeds and Cardiff are in line for a stage visit. The organisers have promised a course that will show off some of the UK’s diverse landscapes, catering not only to the elite races taking part but also aiming to inspire a new generation of cycling enthusiasts.
A major social impact initiative will accompany both Grand Départs, intending to address inactivity, improve mental health, boost local economies, and strengthen community bonds. UK Sport and British Cycling will lead this ambitious programme, with further support from national and regional governments and stakeholders.
The last visit of the Tour de France Hommes to the UK occurred in 2014, featuring memorable stages through Yorkshire and London, drawing record crowds as cycling in Britain reached the peak of its bubble. Prior to that, the UK also hosted the Grand Départ in London & Kent in 2007 and an infamous stage in 1974 on the Plympton bypass. The 2027 event aims to build on this successful legacy, positioning Britain prominently within international cycling once again. The 2014 Grand Départ spawned the Tour de Yorkshire race that ran from 2015-2019 and the potential is there to do something similar from 2027.
Reactions from key figures
Alongside the races themselves, organisers will deliver an ambitious social impact programme addressing inactivity, mental health, economic growth, and community support. UK Sport’s Simon Morton described this as “the biggest free spectator event ever hosted in the UK,” highlighting the exceptional accessibility the races will offer, stretching across villages, towns, and cities nationwide.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy further emphasised the broader significance of hosting both Grand Départs, noting the opportunity to “cement Britain’s reputation as a destination for major international sporting events,” while attracting new visitors and ensuring a lasting legacy. She particularly underscored the importance of bringing the Tour de France Femmes to Britain for the first time, aligning with ongoing efforts to break down barriers for women and girls in sport.
Jon Dutton OBE, CEO of British Cycling, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity presented by hosting both events concurrently, viewing it as a “national moment that encourages healthier lifestyles, supports cycle tourism, and brings communities together.”
Building on a successful history
The Tour de France Hommes previously visited Britain in 2014, with memorable stages held in Yorkshire and London drawing millions of spectators. Prior to that, Britain also hosted the Grand Départ in 2007. Tour de France General Director Christian Prudhomme praised Britain’s enduring enthusiasm for cycling, noting the historical connections:
“The Tour de France and the UK share a rich history, and I am delighted to bring the Grand Départ 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.”
Main photo credit: SWPix.com
