The excitement is brewing in the UK as the men’s and women’s Tour de France are set to kick off from Britain in July 2027, marking an extraordinary moment for cycling fans across the nation. In a ceremony held in Edinburgh on March 19, 2025, it was announced that the Scottish capital will host the men’s Grand Depart, while England and Wales are also slated to feature in the race's route, creating a historic dual-launch event not previously seen outside of France.
For the first time, both the Tour de France and the Tour de France Femmes will begin in the UK, with the latter’s exact starting location yet to be unveiled. This remarkable event underscores the UK’s growing significance in the world of cycling, returning to the spotlight after previous successful hosting periods in London, Yorkshire, and Cambridge.
Christian Prudhomme, the general director of the Tour de France, emphasized the importance of this monumental occasion, stating, “Britain has always welcomed the Tour with enthusiasm and pride. This collaboration across England, Scotland, and Wales promises to make the event even more special.” The 2027 Tour will not only enhance cycling's profile nationally but also establish a legacy that encourages greater participation in the sport.
The last time the men’s Tour de France started in Britain was in Yorkshire in 2014, with previous Grand Départs in London (2007) and various locations back to 1974. The 2014 event alone attracted an impressive 3.5 million spectators, indicating a robust interest that organizers anticipate building upon for the upcoming race.
Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, expressed his pride in the announcement, saying, “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.” His remarks reflect a deep appreciation for the race’s potential to showcase Scotland's stunning scenery and vibrant culture to a global audience.
A spokesperson from British Cycling further stated, “This will be the largest free sporting spectacle in British history,” predicting that crowds lining the streets will ultimately reach millions, eager to witness this iconic cycling event.
Mark Cavendish, the legendary cyclist known for his record 35 Tour de France stage wins, described his memories from the 2007 Grand Depart in London, noting that the enthusiasm of the crowds was overwhelming. He added, “I think we can’t even imagine what a start of the Tour de France is going to be like here. It’s going to be bigger than you can even imagine.” His words resonate with the excitement building within the cycling community.
Scottish Cycling executive Nick Rennie underscored the long-term benefits expected from the Tour, stating, “It’s hard to underestimate the scale of today’s announcement and the impact it will have on cycling in Scotland.” The arrival of the Tour in Scotland is viewed as a significant milestone for sport in the region, particularly following the success of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.
Local cyclists are equally enthusiastic about this opportunity. Sean Flynn, an Edinburgh native and professional cyclist racing with Team Picnic-Post NL, shared his hopes: “Having the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in Edinburgh is a dream come true for me and all Scottish cycling fans. It will provide tougher racing than people expect and will be amazing the motivation it gives to local riders.”
The culmination of the event will feature a landmark social impact program aimed at improving public health and participation in cycling, highlighting key governmental support from both the Scottish and UK governments. The diverse landscapes of Scotland, England, and Wales are expected to add a unique flavor to the Tour while inspiring citizens to engage with cycling.
With the Commonwealth Games returning to Glasgow in 2026, the Tour de France Grand Depart in Edinburgh in 2027 will ensure that the UK remains a central player in global sporting events. Excitement is already building as British cyclists prepare to showcase their talents and promote a future generation of cycling enthusiasts. This dual Grand Départ is not just a celebration of cycling; it represents a cultural moment for Britain, uniting diverse communities under the banner of sportsmanship and shared passion for cycling.
As we move closer to the date, details regarding stage locations and race setups will be further clarified in the upcoming autumn. Regardless, the impact of hosting such a prestigious event promises to breathe new life into cycling across the UK and cement its legacy in the hearts of cycling fans everywhere.
