WELSH GOVERNMENT BACKS RIDECYMRU WITH THREE-YEAR INVESTMENT TO BUILD WALES' CYCLING LEGACY AHEAD OF THE TOUR DE FRANCE GRAND DÉPART 2027
he partnership will help grow cycling tourism, increase participation and deliver lasting economic benefits for communities across Wales.
The Welsh Government has announced a new three-year investment in RideCymru, the multi-day road cycling event created by Threshold Sports, as part of a shared ambition to establish
as a world-class destination for cycling tourism and endurance events ahead of the Tour de France Grand Départ in 2027.
The partnership will support RideCymru's long-term growth while helping to attract more visitors to Wales, encourage greater participation in cycling and deliver lasting economic benefits for communities and businesses across the country.
Cycling tourism already contributes over £70 million in overnight visitor spend to the Welsh economy each year through road cycling alone and Wales welcomes more than 200,000 overnight road cycling trips annually*. Through this investment, the Welsh Government and Threshold Sports aim to build on this momentum, further strengthening Wales' reputation as one of Europe's premier cycling destinations while creating a lasting legacy beyond the Tour de France Grand Départ in 2027.
As global attention increasingly turns towards Wales ahead of hosting one of the world's biggest sporting events, RideCymru will play an important role in showcasing the country's spectacular landscapes, thriving communities and exceptional road cycling to both UK and international audiences.
Taking place over three days this September, RideCymru sees riders tackle a fully supported 250-mile journey through the heart of Wales, travelling across dramatic mountain roads, iconic climbs and picturesque market towns. More than simply an endurance event, RideCymru has been designed to celebrate the landscapes, culture and communities that make Wales such a unique place to ride.
With strong early demand and only a limited number of places remaining for the 2026 event, RideCymru reflects the growing appetite for immersive cycling experiences that combine physical challenge with exploration.
By working together, the Welsh Government and Threshold Sports aim to increase cycling tourism, inspire more people to experience Wales by bike and further establish the nation as a leading destination for world-class endurance events.
Welsh Government Cabinet Minister for Sports, Heledd Fychan said: "We're pleased to support RideCymru through this new partnership as Wales continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the world's great cycling destinations. As we look ahead to hosting the Tour de France Grand Départ in 2027, RideCymru will play an important role in encouraging more people to discover Wales by bike, while delivering lasting benefits for local communities, tourism, and the wider economy. This investment reflects our shared ambition to inspire people of all abilities to get active, experience our incredible landscapes and create a lasting legacy for years to come."
Nick Tuppen, CEO of Threshold Sports, said: "RideCymru was created to showcase everything that makes cycling in Wales so special. While riders will undoubtedly come for the challenge, they'll leave having experienced the incredible roads, welcoming communities and breathtaking scenery that make Wales one of Europe's finest places to ride. We're incredibly proud to be working alongside the Welsh Government through this long-term partnership. Together, we have an exciting opportunity to grow cycling tourism, inspire more people to discover Wales and ensure the momentum generated by the Tour de France Grand Départ creates lasting benefits for communities and businesses across the country."
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to using major sporting events as a catalyst for long-term economic growth, increased participation and sustainable tourism. Through continued investment over the next three years, RideCymru will help position Wales as one of Europe's leading destinations for cycling and outdoor adventure while creating opportunities for local businesses and communities to benefit from the growth of the sport.
Tickets for RideCymru 2027 go on sale this September. Register your interest now at www.ridecymru.co.uk to be the first to hear when entries open.
