Today sees the announcement of the outline route and start and
finish locations of the 2027 Tour De France, when Wales will host
the world's most prestigious cycling race for the first
time.
The Wales stage will start in Welshpool and finish in Cardiff, on
4th July 2027, marking the third stage and climax of
the UK Grand Depart. The event will be the biggest
free-to-spectate sporting event ever to take place in the UK.
To coincide with the confirmation of the route, it's also been
announced today that Geraint Thomas OBE will take on a new role
as Wales' Cycling Ambassador in the run-up to the Tour.
The two-time Olympic gold medallist and 2018 Tour de France
winner will help promote Wales as a top global cycling
destination.
Thomas will work with Visit Wales to promote Wales' stunning
landscapes, world-class routes and family-friendly bike
trails.
The ambassadorship, announced by First Minister and Christian Prudhomme,
General Director of the Tour de France (ASO), will give Thomas a
platform to inspire young Welsh cyclists, while helping maximise
the long-term benefits to Wales of hosting ‘Le Tour'.
Geraint Thomas said:
"I'm incredibly proud to be announced as Wales' Cycling
Ambassador as we prepare for the 2027 Tour de France. The Tour
coming to Wales is massive – these roads, these climbs and these
fans are made for cycling, and now the world gets to see that. I
can't wait to play my part in welcoming the Tour, inspiring
riders young and old, and helping make this a moment Wales will
never forget."
The First Minister said:
“Hosting the Tour De France is a dream come true for Welsh
cycling fans, and who better to take a role as our official
Ambassador than Wales' greatest ever cyclist Geraint Thomas?
“With epic road climbs, quiet country lanes, incredible mountain
biking and traffic‑free trails, Wales offers something for every
rider. Our range of cycling opportunities across all
disciplines of the sport will be showcased to a global audience
during the Tour, along with Wales' distinctive culture, epic
landscapes, iconic attractions and a “croeso” (welcome) like no
other.
“Not only is the Tour coming to Wales going to be a thrilling
experience for cycling fans worldwide, it's an invaluable
opportunity to show Wales' breathtaking scenery and excellent
cycle routes to a global audience.”
, Cabinet Secretary for the
Economy, added:
"Hosting the Tour de France for the first time is a historic
moment for Wales, and a tremendous opportunity for our economy.
“Geraint Thomas is the perfect ambassador to help us showcase our
world-class cycling routes to a global audience and inspire the
next generation of Welsh cyclists. We are determined to maximise
the lasting benefits of this event to communities and businesses
right across Wales."
Notes to editors
Additional materials:
7 - Maps - Dropbox
