L Étape Dubai by Tour de France Unveils New Routes and Expanded Activities for 2026 Edition to Inspire Cycling Community

L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France Unveils New Routes and Expanded Activities for 2026 Edition L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France, presented by Škoda and supported by Dubai Sports Council, has officially opened registration for its highly anticipated 2026 edition, set to take place on 24–25 January. The next installment promises a fresh experience, featuring new race routes, an expanded programme of activities, and exciting opportunities for both amateur cyclists and families to immerse themselves in the iconic Tour de France spirit within the UAE. Set against Dubai’s dynamic cityscape, the new courses will start from the creative hub of Dubai Design District (D3) and finish at the prestigious Expo Village Park, passing by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Riders can choose between the challenging 112 km ‘Epic Race’ or the more accessible 61 km ‘Classic Race’, both curated to balance athletic challenge and scenic enjoyment. Departing from the heart of D3, participants will be treated to magnificent views of downtown Dubai, venturing into routes enhanced by new loops, including a route encircling Global Village. Alongside the primary races, the weekend festival will include a Family Ride (20 km) and Kids’ Race (300m–1.8 km), ensuring a celebratory atmosphere suitable for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Staying true to the illustrious legacy of the Tour de France, the event will allow riders to tackle sprint sections, compete for the coveted Tour de France jerseys, and even ride alongside Tour de France legends. Participants will celebrate their achievements at the finish line with festivities styled after the world’s most famous cycling race. A highlight of the 2026 edition is the expanded Race Village at Expo, serving as the central hub for riders, families, and fans. Powered by partners including Škoda, this space will host an expanded programme of activities, from social rides and engaging village challenges to special initiatives encouraging female participation. With an increased number of exhibitors and enhanced experiences, the Race Village aims to elevate the atmosphere and community interaction across race weekend. The wider race programme runs from September through January, offering a series of social rides, expert-led build-up rides, and new experiences at varied Dubai destinations. These collective activities are designed to further foster cycling culture in the emirate and ensure inclusivity across the diverse community. Following the strong foundation of the event’s inaugural edition, which featured over 1,000 participants including a notable 243 international riders and 266 Emiratis, L’Étape Dubai is set to welcome up to 2,000 riders in 2026. This solidifies its reputation as the leading platform for amateur cyclists to feel the distinctive excitement of the Tour de France in the Middle East. Name-Quoted Statements: Eissa Sharif, Director of Events Department from Dubai Sports Council, expressed satisfaction with the event’s growth, highlighting the role of national talents in delivering an outstanding sporting and organisational experience for participants and visitors. He noted the alignment with Dubai’s vision as a global sports hub and the importance of promoting a culture of sports and physical activity. Fairouz Al Qazi, Race Director of L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France, emphasized the event’s emergence as a key fixture on the region’s sporting calendar and promised expanded offerings catering to both passionate cyclists and families, acknowledging the crucial support of local authorities and partners. Antoine Quiers, Project Manager, L’Étape Series – Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.), acknowledged the rapid establishment of L’Étape Dubai as the premier regional amateur cycling event, paying tribute to the commitment of event stakeholders and looking forward to an even bigger second edition. Lukas Honzak, Managing Director, Škoda Middle East, highlighted Škoda’s longstanding involvement in cycling and partnership with the Tour de France. He reaffirmed Škoda’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s status as a leading cycling hub and announced plans to enhance the brand’s presence and family-oriented activities at the 2026 Race Village. With its compelling mix of competitive racing, family-friendly rides, and community engagement, the 2026 L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France is poised to showcase Dubai’s burgeoning passion for cycling on an even grander scale. Team V.4-EM-UAE