The 2027 Tour de France will officially begin in Edinburgh, Scotland, marking the first time the prestigious cycling event will visit both Scotland and Wales, as confirmed by race organizers ASO.

This landmark decision underscores the United Kingdom’s increasing prominence as a host for major international sporting events, aligning with the UK government’s strategic initiatives aimed at boosting tourism and promoting active lifestyles.

At an official ceremony held in Edinburgh, ASO announced that the initial three stages of the men’s race will cross Scotland, England, and Wales from July 2–4, 2027. The exact route details remain pending, but the journey promises challenging terrains, especially in Wales, where steep gradients will likely produce thrilling competition among top contenders.

Edinburgh’s selection follows extensive collaboration between local authorities, Cycling UK, and UK Sport, aiming to capitalize on the enormous success of past British-hosted Grand Departs. Notably, the 2014 Tour start in Yorkshire attracted around 3.5 million spectators, significantly impacting local economies, according to VisitBritain, the UK’s official tourism agency.

Tour de France Director Christian Prudhomme praised Edinburgh as a “magical city,” stating the city’s selection was delayed in previous years due to logistical challenges related to its distance from mainland Europe.

However, changes in international cycling regulations by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) have introduced greater flexibility, allowing the race to begin earlier on a Friday instead of the traditional Saturday, easing scheduling constraints for remote starts.

The UK government has expressed enthusiastic support for hosting the Tour, recognizing the considerable economic and cultural benefits.

Government projections anticipate substantial tourism revenue and international exposure, aligning with broader national strategies for economic recovery and global branding outlined on gov.uk. The event is expected to generate around £100 million ($130 million), similar to previous Grand Departs in Britain, significantly benefiting local businesses and communities.

This announcement arrives at a critical time for British cycling, which has seen declining prominence in recent years following a golden era marked by Tour victories from Bradley Wiggins, Chris Froome, and Geraint Thomas.

Welsh rider Thomas remains the last British winner, securing victory in 2018. Organizers hope the 2027 Grand Depart will revive enthusiasm for cycling, particularly as coverage moves away from free-to-air television from 2026 onward.

Retired British cycling legend Mark Cavendish, who holds a record 35 stage wins at the Tour, celebrated the decision, highlighting Scotland’s historically warm support. He emphasized the enormous scale and excitement the Tour would bring, suggesting its potential to reinvigorate cycling across Britain.

Additionally, the women’s Tour de France will also start in the UK in 2027, though exact details regarding the starting city and route remain forthcoming.

The women’s event is scheduled for the weekend following the men’s Tour, amplifying attention toward gender equality in sports—another priority underlined by the UK’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport.

For more updates and details, residents and international visitors are encouraged to follow announcements via official government websites, VisitScotland, and Cycling UK, which will provide comprehensive travel, tourism, and event information as preparations progress toward this historic Tour de France edition.