The Women’s Tour, the award-winning and trailblazing cycle race, will unfortunately take a one-year hiatus in 2023. Owing to a combination of increased running costs (approximately 20% higher in comparison to the 2022 race), a reduced level of commercial support, and challenges in finding a vehicle partner to replace ŠKODA to help create a safe racing environment for riders and spectators alike, it has proved impossible to deliver the event that was proposed for June.
The decision has been taken now following a three-week renewed appeal for funding, which included an incredibly popular crowdfunding scheme that was enthusiastically supported by over 500 race fans. The Women’s Tour thanks everybody who donated for their unwavering loyalty, as well as all the messages of goodwill that have been sent. A refunds process, overseen by the GoFundMe platform, has begun.
This outcome is incredibly disappointing for the stakeholders set to host this year’s race, who have shown great support and understanding throughout this process. Organisers will continue to work with them to explore opportunities for hosting world-class cycling events in the near future.
Since its inauguration in 2014, the race has led the way in the fight towards gender equality in sport, be it from raising rider welfare standards and prize money to providing guaranteed TV, online and media coverage. The Women’s Tour has a prestigious list of former winners, including the likes of Marianne Vos (2014), Elisa Longo Borghini (2022), and home favourite Lizzie Deignan, the only two-time winner of the race to date (2016 and 2019).
In addition to generating over £55m for the UK economy, the event has featured an inspirational partnership with Breast Cancer Now, energised future generations through its centrepiece school engagement programme, and showcased the best of Britain’s best towns, cities and countryside to a worldwide audience.
Organisers are already working on plans for next year’s edition, which will mark the 10th anniversary of the inaugural Women’s Tour. Wales will host the event’s Grand Départ for the first time as part of a long-term agreement already in place with the Welsh Government.
Commercial partners wishing to be involved in the 2024 edition can find out more information at https://www.womenstour.co.uk/partners/commercial-opportunities
or by emailing commercial@thetour.co.uk.
