Cliff Notes
- The Tour de France will make its return to the UK in 2027, featuring both the men’s and women’s races across England, Scotland, and Wales.
- This marks the first instance of both Grand Departs occurring in the same country outside of France, with expectations of large crowds along the routes.
- Organisers aim to implement a social impact programme to encourage healthier lifestyles and support local communities alongside the event.
Tour de France returning to the UK in 2027 | UK News
The Tour de France is returning to the UK in 2027.
As well as the men’s race, the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will also take place across England, Scotland and Wales.
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.
The men’s competition will begin in Edinburgh, with further route details expected this autumn.
This is 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 when crowds of supporters cheered from the roadsides of Yorkshire and London for three stages.
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.
“Staging the Tour de France Femmes in Britain for the first time will also be a historic occasion and inspire the next generation of female cyclists while supporting our mission of breaking down barriers for women and girls to get more involved in sport.”