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In 2027, Edinburgh and Leeds will serve as the starting points for the men’s and women’s editions of the Tour de France, respectively. The UK Government has described this event as “the most accessible major sporting spectacle ever held in Britain.” It is anticipated that the Grand Departs for both races will pass within an hour’s drive of 60% of the UK population, offering free spectator access along more than 900 kilometers (559 miles) of public roads.
For the men’s competition, the opening stage will begin in Edinburgh and conclude in Carlisle. This initial 184-kilometer (114-mile) leg on July 2nd will be followed by a 223-kilometer (139-mile) route from Keswick to Liverpool. The third stage, of comparable distance, will journey from Welshpool to Cardiff. Meanwhile, the women’s race will kick off earlier on July 30th in Leeds, progressing toward Manchester. Subsequent stages include a route through the Peak District to Sheffield and culminate in a final stage in London on August 1st.
The year 2027 marks a historic moment, as it will be the first occasion that both the men’s and women’s Grand Departs take place in the same country outside of France. Additionally, it represents the debut of the Tour de France Femmes starting beyond mainland Europe. Recognized as the largest free-to-attend sporting events globally, the Tours will involve British Cycling recruiting around 7,000 volunteers to assist with managing routes, supporting spectators, and engaging local communities. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) projects the races will generate an economic boost of £150 million for the UK.
Officials emphasize the significance of hosting these races, with DCMS stating, “Together the races will be the most accessible major sporting spectacle ever held in Britain.” Sports minister Stephanie Peacock announced a funding package of £32 million to aid both the event and its lasting benefits. Culture secretary Lisa Nandy highlighted the unifying power of the races, expressing that they “will unite the nations and show off the best of Britain” while inspiring pride among residents. British Cycling chief executive Jon Dutton also expressed optimism that the six stages could enhance the sport’s popularity and “create lasting change for communities right across Britain.”
Reflecting on the past, three stages of the men’s Tour were held in England in 2014, drawing an estimated roadside crowd of 4.8 million spectators. The 2027 route will span Scotland, England, and Wales, featuring iconic locations such as Edinburgh Castle, the Lake District, and the Brecon Beacons. Tour de France general director Christian Prudhomme acknowledged the UK’s long-standing enthusiasm for the event, noting that the selected routes “reflect the beauty and diversity of Britain’s terrain.” Meanwhile, former world champion Lizzie Deignan celebrated the inclusion of the women’s race in the UK, calling it “a huge moment for the sport and an opportunity that will inspire countless women and girls to get on their bikes.” The men’s Tour de France dates back to 1903, whereas the Tour de France Femmes was first held in 2022
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