Women’s Tour 2023 postponed
The Women’s Tour is going to go on a one-year hiatus due to increased running costs and reduced level of commercial support.
The news follows the postponement of SweetSpot organised Tour Series, which is skipping 2023 due to “the most challenging economic climate the series has faced since its inaugural edition in 2009”.
Originally scheduled for June, the Women’s Tour organisers reported running costs were up 20% on 2022 and turned to a three-week appeal for funding, including a crowdfunding scheme that was supported by over 500 race fans. A refund 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,” read the organiser statement: “We 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 Deigan, 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 first 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 womenstour.co.uk/partners/commercial-opportunities or by emailing commercial@thetour.co.uk.
