Full Breakdown
London to Host Historic First Team Time Trial for Tour de France Femmes in 2027
4/20/2026, 11:29:23 PM
Landmark Event in Women's Cycling
In a significant milestone for women's cycling, London will host the inaugural team time trial in the history of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift on August 1, 2027. This event will be part of the Grand Départ, which will also feature the first stages of the women's race in the UK, marking the first time both the men's and women's Tours commence in the same country outside France. The time trial will cover approximately 18 kilometers through central London, passing iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge, culminating in a finish on The Mall.
Stages of the Grand Départ
The Grand Départ will kick off on July 30, 2027, with the first stage starting in Leeds and concluding in Manchester, covering 85.7 kilometers. The second stage will take riders from Manchester to Sheffield, featuring challenging climbs in the Peak District, including the notorious Winnats Pass and Snake Pass, over a distance of 154.4 kilometers with an elevation gain of approximately 3,000 meters. Marion Rousse, race director, emphasized that the stages are designed to be both challenging and visually spectacular, aiming to attract significant spectator turnout.
Anticipated Impact and Community Engagement
The event is expected to draw massive crowds, with estimates suggesting up to 10 million spectators may line the streets to support the riders. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan expressed pride in hosting this historic moment, stating that it would inspire the next generation of women cyclists and contribute to making London a more cycling-friendly city. The Tour de France Femmes is anticipated to be the most attended women's sporting event ever held in the UK, showcasing the growing importance of women's cycling on the global stage.
Voices from the Peloton
British riders Cat Ferguson and Flora Perkins, both of whom are expected to compete, shared their excitement about the event. Ferguson, who was inspired by the men's Tour in 2014, remarked, "I hope to have the opportunity next year to line up and race in the peloton." Perkins added that the team time trial would provide a tangible demonstration of cycling as a team sport, highlighting its historical significance in the UK.
Official Statements & Responses
Marion Rousse described the inclusion of the team time trial as a "significant and historic moment," emphasizing the honor of bringing the event to a capital city like London. Khan reiterated the event's potential to inspire future generations, stating, "This global sporting event will inspire the next generation of women cyclists and help build a better London for everyone."
What's Next
As the event approaches, further details about the complete route will be revealed later this year. The organizers are also implementing a social impact program, "Joy," aimed at promoting cycling among young people and fostering community engagement throughout the UK. This initiative is expected to leave a lasting legacy beyond the event itself, encouraging more women and girls to participate in cycling.
