Tour de France to start in Edinburgh in 2027

The prestigious Tour de France cycle race is to begin in Edinburgh in 2027, after organisers announced that the Grand Départs will take place in Scotland for the first time.

The world’s biggest bike race is expected to attract huge numbers of fans to line the streets when the best competitors in the sport arrive in the Scottish capital.

It will be the third time Britain has hosted the start of the world-famous race after cyclists set off from Yorkshire in 2014 and London in 2007.

Plans have been confirmed as part of an announcement that both the men’s Tour and the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, will both take place in the UK in 2027, marking the first time both the men’s and women’s Grand Départs will take place in the same country – outside France.

Details of the route will be unveiled later this year but organisers say they want the events to “showcase Britain’s diverse landscapes alongside the nation’s enthusiasm for cycling”.

The build-up to the event will also see organisers deliver a social impact programme that they say aims to use cycling to “tackle inactivity, improve mental wellbeing, boost economic growth and support communities”.

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney welcomed the announcement and said it was further demonstration of how attractive the nation is to major sporting organisations.

It comes after the decision to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, and the co-hosting of the 2028 men’s football European Championships.

“It is a tremendous honour to welcome the Tour de France to Scotland,” Swinney said. “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.”

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 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.”