*Press release from the Isle of Wight Council
Ryde will play a starring role when the Tour of Britain, the UK’s most prestigious cycle race, heads to the Isle of Wight for the first time in 2022.
The historic seaside town will host the start of the final stage of the race on Sunday 11 September, securing its place in what will be one of the biggest sporting events to ever take place on the Island.
Ryde is no stranger to cycling, having previously hosted the opening round of the Tour Series, the leading domestic racing series, that is also run by Tour of Britain organiser SweetSpot.
More than 100 of the world’s best riders will compete on the Island, with a large crowd comprising both local residents and race fans expected to turn out for this unforgettable, free-to-watch spectacle.
The race’s 2022 finale has been two years in the making, with preliminary details having first been announced in July 2020. The full route for stage eight and its finish location will be revealed in due course.
Councillor Michael Lilley, Mayor of Ryde, added: “As mayor, I am delighted to hear the great news that the Tour of Britain is starting on the Isle of Wight from Ryde.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our historic town’s economy and community. Ryde Town Council are committed to the Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere status and a strong green agenda.
“Therefore, celebrating a major cycling event in our town will enable residents and tourists to embrace, enjoy and health-wise benefit cycling as a first choice of mode of transport for work, leisure and tourism.
“This will contribute to reduction of climate change and mental well-being. Ryde has so much to offer visitors to the with events throughout the year and the Tour of Britain will be a crowning glory to our event programme.” The full route for stage eight on the Isle of Wight will be released in the coming weeks