The 2027 Tour de France will kick off in Edinburgh, Scotland, marking the first time the prestigious cycling event will visit both Scotland and Wales. This announcement was made by race organizers ASO.
This milestone decision highlights the growing role of the United Kingdom as a host for major international sporting events. It also aligns with the UK government’s efforts to promote tourism and active lifestyles.
At an official ceremony in Edinburgh, ASO revealed that the first three stages of the men’s race will take place in Scotland, England, and Wales from July 2–4, 2027. While the exact route is still being finalized, the race will feature challenging terrains, especially in Wales, which is known for its steep gradients and tough competition.
The selection of Edinburgh came after extensive collaboration between local authorities, Cycling UK, and UK Sport. The aim is to build on the success of past British-hosted Grand Departs. For example, the 2014 Tour start in Yorkshire attracted around 3.5 million spectators, giving a significant boost to local economies, according to VisitBritain, the UK’s official tourism agency.
Tour de France Director Christian Prudhomme called Edinburgh a “magical city.” He explained that the city’s selection was delayed in previous years due to its distance from mainland Europe. However, new changes to international cycling regulations by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) have made it easier for races to start earlier, allowing the Tour to begin on a Friday rather than the traditional Saturday.
The UK government has shown strong support for hosting the Tour, recognizing the event’s potential economic and cultural benefits. Projections suggest that the event will generate about £100 million ($130 million), similar to previous Grand Departs in Britain. This will provide a significant boost to local businesses and communities.
This announcement is especially important for British cycling, which has seen a decline in prominence following the successful careers of Bradley Wiggins, Chris Froome, and Geraint Thomas. Thomas remains the last British winner, having triumphed in 2018. Organizers hope the 2027 Grand Depart will reignite enthusiasm for cycling in the UK, especially as coverage shifts from free-to-air television starting in 2026.
Mark Cavendish, the retired British cycling legend who holds a record 35 stage wins at the Tour, welcomed the decision. He praised Scotland’s strong cycling community and highlighted the potential for the event to revitalize interest in the sport across Britain.
The women’s Tour de France will also start in the UK in 2027, although details regarding the starting city and route are still to be confirmed. The women’s race will follow the men’s event, which further emphasizes the UK’s focus on gender equality in sports, a priority of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport.
As preparations for this historic edition of the Tour de France move forward, both residents and international visitors are encouraged to stay informed through official government websites, VisitScotland, and Cycling UK. These platforms will provide comprehensive travel, tourism, and event information.
Related topics:
- Uniworld to Launch Three New Luxury Super Ships in Europe by 2027
- Expo to Strengthen China-Europe Cooperation
- Air France Introduces New First-Class Suites, Starting with Paris-New York Route
