Tour de France set for Edinburgh depart
The men’s and women’s Tour de France will commence in the UK in 2027, it has been announced.
The news marks a historic moment as the first time both Grand Départs will be held outside of France and in the same country.
The men’s race will start in Edinburgh, returning to Britain for the first time since 2014 when stages were held across Yorkshire and London. The inaugural UK race took place in London in 2007.
The women’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, never before staged in the UK, will traverse England, Scotland, and Wales during the 2027 event.
Christian Prudhomme, Tour de France General Director, said, “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.”
John Swinney, First Minister of Scotland, said, “It is a tremendous honour to welcome the Tour de France to Scotland. We know it is one of the most iconic and inspiring contests in sport, and that Scotland provides the perfect stage for major events.
“Hosting the Tour promises to be a unique opportunity to showcase our country to its many fans around the world as part of a timeline of incredible sporting events in Scotland from 2026 to 2028.”
Jon Dutton OBE, CEO of British Cycling, commented, “The return of the Tour de France Grand Départ to Britain is an exciting moment for cycling in the UK. Hosting both the men’s and women’s races together will be a first, and we believe it has the potential to inspire more people to discover the joy and benefits of cycling. 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.”
On Tuesday 19th March, HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh led a celebration at Edinburgh Castle, marking the official handover as the UK prepares to host the Grand Départ. The historic landmark was lit in yellow, with pyrotechnics and smoke displays.
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