£1 million boost to deliver lasting legacy for Scotland
A social impact programme will be rolled out to help capture the “once in a generation” benefits of hosting the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ.
National governing body, Scottish Cycling, will work with local authorities and community organisations to deliver a range of projects, funded by £1 million from the Scottish Government.
They will aim to bring long lasting social benefits across communities by helping tackle inactivity, improving mental wellbeing and increasing participation.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead announced the funding during a visit to Rural and Urban Training Scheme in Penicuik, where young people are already experiencing the positive impact of cycling initiatives.
Mr Lochhead said: “Hosting the opening stage of the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ is a once in a generation opportunity. It is the biggest free spectator event in the world and will showcase our country to a global audience.
“But it is about more than just a race. This £1 million investment will ensure communities feel the benefits across Scotland, supporting people to become more active, improving wellbeing and helping local areas to thrive long after the race has left.
“The Tour de France is just one of three upcoming major sporting events – along with this summer’s Commonwealth Games and the UEFA EURO 2028 football championships – that will underline Scotland’s status as a global sporting venue.”
Chief Executive of Scottish Cycling Nick Rennie said: “Today is a huge milestone on the journey towards the 2027 Tour de France Grand Depart and underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring this is more than just a bike race, but something that positively impacts the people of Scotland.
“We’re very proud the Scottish Government sees us as a trusted delivery partner and will be doing everything we can to get people from all walks of life on their bikes.”
Champion junior cyclist Daisy Wilkinson, who is on the GB Olympic pathway, said: “It’s amazing to be involved today and to see so many young people enjoying cycling.
“I’ve no doubt the Tour de France will inspire many more people to get on a bike too. I’m already so excited for the Tour de France Grand Depart next summer and will be out on the road cheering on riders.”
The Grand Départ will begin in Edinburgh on 2 July 2027 before travelling through Midlothian, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway, finishing in Carlisle.
Edinburgh Leisure continues to strengthen access to multi‑sport opportunities for young people across the capital
As the largest provider of sport and physical activity in Edinburgh, Edinburgh Leisure is continuing to invest in inclusive, high‑quality opportunities for young people with the launch of a brand‑new Junior Golf Instruction Programme.
The new programme further enhances Edinburgh Leisure’s extensive junior coaching offer, which already spans a wide range of sports including Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Climbing, Dance, Diving, Football, Gymnastics, Judo, Netball, Swimming, Tennis and Trampolining.
The addition of golf reflects Edinburgh Leisure’s ongoing commitment to ensuring children and young people can access and experience a variety of sports across the city, regardless of background or ability.
Delivered at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh Leisure’s fast‑growing coaching hub, the Junior Golf Programme will run indoors, making it accessible year‑round and ideal for beginners.
Meadowbank has seen significant demand across multiple junior sports in recent years, and the introduction of golf builds on this momentum, reinforcing the venue’s role as a centre of excellence for youth sport.
Notably, Gymnastics was successfully introduced to Meadowbank in Summer 2025, enabling the programme to expand its capacity and offer even more opportunities for young athletes.
Designed for children aged 7–12, the programme offers a fun, supportive introduction to golf, led by friendly Community Golf Instructors. Two six‑week courses are available:
Golf Minis (Ages 7–9): A playful introduction focusing on confidence, coordination and fundamental movement skills.
Fairway Flyers (Ages 10–12): Helping older children develop technique, coordination and an early understanding of the game.
Sessions began on 23 February, with Golf Minis running on Mondays from 3.30pm–4.30pm, followed by Fairway Flyers from 4.30pm–5.30pm. With February and March courses fully booked, be sure to follow Edinburgh Leisure social channels for upcoming sessions.
Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “As a city‑wide provider, our focus is on giving young people the chance to try different sports, find what they enjoy and build confidence through movement.
“The introduction of junior golf at Meadowbank strengthens our multi‑sport offer and helps ensure children across Edinburgh can access high‑quality coaching in a welcoming and inclusive environment.”
For those ready to progress beyond indoor sessions, Edinburgh Leisure also provides access to six golf courses across the city, including Craigentinny, Carrick Knowe, Silverknowes, Portobello, Braid Hills, and the Wee Braids, supporting young players to continue their sporting journey close to home.
Through its expanding junior coaching programme, Edinburgh Leisure remains committed to helping young people be active, confident, and connected, using sport as a gateway to lifelong physical activity across communities throughout Edinburgh.
The Spartans manager Douglas Samuel has been named the Scottish League Two Glen’s Manager of the Month for January, capping a remarkable milestone of 5,000 days in charge of the Edinburgh club.
Samuel’s side delivered an impressive run of results during the month to position themselves firmly in the title race, underlining the consistency and progress achieved under his long-term leadership.
The month kicked off with a solid 2-0 victory over Dumbarton, before a commanding 6-0 win over East Kilbride. The club rounded off January with a 3-3 draw against Elgin City, securing seven points from three matches.
This strong run has seen The Spartans position themselves as promotion contenders, as they continue their push for the top spot.
Colin Matthews, CEO of Glen’s owner the Loch Lomond Group, said:““Reaching 5,000 days in charge of one club is an extraordinary achievement, and Douglas Samuel has marked it in fitting style with an outstanding month on the pitch.
“The Spartans’ performances in January demonstrated quality, consistency and attacking intent. His leadership and long-term commitment to the club have played a huge role in his success and he is a very worthy recipient of Glen’s Manager of the Month award. Congratulations to Douglas and everyone at Ainslie Park.”
The Spartans FC manager, Douglas Samuel, said: “I’m thrilled that our players’ excellent efforts in January have been recognised.
“This award is recognition for some high-quality performances, and for everyone’s – staff and players – hard work up to this point in the season.”
EDINBURGH’S rugby fans can enjoy a fresh take on a classic Scottish serve this Six Nations, as two of the city’s leading independent drinks producers expand their collaborative ‘hauf and hauf’ offering.
Following a successful festive launch, Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing are rolling out their innovative whisky and beer pairings to an expanded list of pubs across the capital – timed to coincide with the 2026 Six Nations Rugby Championship.
The partnership, which has revived the time-honoured half-and-half tradition, now introduces an exclusive ‘hauf and hauf’ serve to mark the Six Nations, offering fans a great way to back Scotland with a traditional Scottish pairing.
The initiative celebrates not only Scotland’s sporting passion, but also its rich drinks heritage, with the two family-run businesses showcasing their shared commitment to quality, flavour and community.
William Wemyss, Co-Founder of Wemyss Family Spirits, said: “The Six Nations is the perfect moment to bring people together over great food, drink and sport.
“Building on our hauf and hauf collaboration with Stewart Brewing, this partnership is about celebrating Scotland through carefully paired flavours, giving fans an enjoyable and responsible way to mark match days during the Six Nations
“It’s about putting a fun, flavour-led spin on a beloved Scottish ritual, one that encourages people to slow down and savour the experience.”
Fans are encouraged to enjoy a classic Scottish hauf and hauf – pairing a Stewart Brewing beer with a Wemyss Family Spirits whisky – as a simple and sociable way to back Scotland on matchdays.
To get Scottish supporters started, we’ve pulled together our favourite pairings which we think best reflects the character of our national side.
Stewart’s 80/- with Wemyss Spice King
A modern take on a classic Scottish serve. Stewart’s 80/- is one of Scotland’s most recognisable beers, making it a natural choice for fans backing the home side, while Spice King adds warmth and depth for those choosing to enjoy a dram alongside the match.
Edinburgh Black with Wemyss Peat Chimney
A richer, more full-bodied pairing inspired by the capital, home of Scottish Rugby. The smooth roast character of Edinburgh Black complements the gentle smoke of Peat Chimney, offering a robust but balanced option for match days at participating pubs across the city.
The hauf and hauf collaboration is now available at a growing list of pubs, including:
Teuchters, William Street
Whighams Wine Cellars, Hope Street
Athletic Arms (Diggers), Angle Park Terrace
O’Connors, Broughton Road
Jeremiah’s Taproom, Elm Row
Mathers Bar, Queensferry Street
Ye Olde Inn, Main Street
No. 1 High Street, High Street
56 North, West Crosscauseway
The Ensign Ewart, Lawnmarket
The Bow Bar, Victoria Street
The Black Cat, Rose Street
The Cambridge Bar, Young Street
Jo Stewart, Co-founder of Stewart Brewing, said: “We’re passionate about bringing people together in pubs, and there’s no better excuse than the Six Nations.
“By matching some of our most-loved brews with Wemyss Family Spirits’ distinctive malts, we’re creating a uniquely Scottish way to toast each nation, with a dash of humour and a whole lot of flavour.”
The initiative marks a continued commitment by both businesses to support Scotland’s vibrant pub trade, boost independent hospitality and bring heritage drinks traditions to a new generation.
Both Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing remain proudly family-run, fiercely independent and dedicated to producing characterful drinks that celebrate craft and community.
With the Calcutta Cup clash against England fast approaching, now is the perfect time to get behind Scotland and show your support. Join fellow fans in Edinburgh pubs, soak up the Murrayfield atmosphere, and enjoy a hauf and hauf ahead of the big match.
The Six Nations ‘hauf and hauf’ serve will be available in participating venues from February 2nd, 2026.
DP World Tour player returns to open new performance centre
A leading Scottish independent school has opened a state-of-the-art Indoor Golf Centre designed to develop the next generation of elite golfers, with a current DP World Tour player returning to open the facility.
Merchiston Castle School has launched the new centre as part of its expanding Golf Academy, showcasing a clear development pathway from school-level golf through to the professional game.
The opening was marked by a visit from former pupil Cameron Adam, now competing on the DP World Tour, who returned to the school to meet pupils currently coming through the academy. Adam secured his DP World Tour card for the 2026 season after topping the Global Amateur Pathway rankings in 2025.
Huw Jones, Head of Merchiston Castle School, said:“Having Cameron back at the school is hugely important for our pupils. He’s a great ambassador for Merchiston and embodies our values and virtues. He shows, in very real terms, what can grow out of a school based programme that nurtures individuals properly over time.
“Each year, at least one of our golfers progresses to a US college scholarship as part of their development, and for some that becomes a route towards the professional game. This new centre strengthens that pathway, whilst also providing further opportunities to grow the sport at Merchiston.”
The centre features advanced Foresight simulator technology used by elite academies and professional players, supporting year-round training, detailed performance analysis and competitive play regardless of weather or daylight. Pupils can practise on world-famous courses, receive real-time data feedback and integrate simulator sessions into their coaching and academic schedules.
Alongside technical coaching and performance technology, pupils in the Golf Academy also receive support from a specialist golf performance psychologist. The focus is on helping them develop mental skills such as staying calm under pressure, managing nerves, improving focus and building consistency.
The investment reflects a wider change in how young golfers are developed in Scotland, with schools playing a more active role in long-term player development alongside academic education.
Fraser Hutchison, Director of Golf at Merchiston Castle School, said:“This centre gives our players access to the same type of technology used by professionals and top academies, but in a school environment where learning and development come first.
“It allows us to work with players in far more detail, all year round, and tailor coaching around their individual needs and academic commitments. For young golfers in Scotland, that kind of access and consistency is hugely important.”
Merchiston’s Golf Academy is intentionally small and selective, supporting up to 28 players at any one time. Pupils receive personalised coaching, strength and conditioning support, performance psychology and structured competitive schedules alongside a full academic education.
Cameron Adam’s return highlights that journey in action. Since leaving Merchiston, he progressed through the US college golf system at Northwestern University, became one of the world’s best amateurs and then secured his DP World Tour card for the 2026 season.
Cameron Adam, said:“Coming back to Merchiston and seeing facilities like this is brilliant. When I was here, we were always looking for ways to train smarter, especially during the winter months.
“Having this level of technology available at school gives young players a real advantage. It helps them understand their game better, practise with purpose and balance golf properly alongside their education.”
To learn more about Merchiston Castle School, please visit:
Excited to share we’re hosting a World Cup Fan Park here at The Pitt. Expect food, DJs, drinks, MASSIVE screens and 100% Tartan Army energy. Secure your tickets now at 4thefans.tv
The pinnacle of Musselburgh Racecourse’s jumps season takes on a distinctive Irish theme this weekend.
The Bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials Weekend over Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February will celebrate the spirit and heritage synonymous with the famous Cheltenham Festival staged every March at the iconic racing venue.
With more than £400,000 in prize money over the two days, the East Lothian track’s standout jumps fixture typically attracts the UK and Ireland’s leading trainers, owners and horses to what is now established as the largest Cheltenham Trials weekend in Scotland.
Racegoers can enjoy the infectious sounds of traditional Irish music bands, including Savage Cabbage and The Good Roosters, and spontaneous pop-up Irish dance performances across the racecourse, filling the day with colour, rhythm and the unmistakable energy of the Emerald Isle.
Musselburgh has partnered with famous Edinburgh Irish pub Dropkick Murphy’s to add to the Irish-inspired atmosphere, piper Lewis Saunders will play on the Saturday and Irish dancers will perform. On the opening day there will also be an After Race Party following the final race (4.11pm) with live music providing a fitting finale to round off celebrations.
Racegoers booking admission tickets before midnight on Friday 30 January can save £3 per person on the normal admission price, which is £35 on Saturday and £30 on Sunday.
Saturday’s card is headlined by the prestigious £80,000 bet365 Scottish Champion Handicap Chase and the £50,000 Listed bet365 Scottish Triumph Hurdle Trial, races that regularly unearth future stars bound for glory at the Cheltenham and Aintree spring festivals.
On Sunday, elite jumps racing continues with the bet365 Edinburgh National run over 3 miles 7 furlongs, and which attracts quality stayers being prepared to challenge at the premier spring jumps meetings.
Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The road to the Cheltenham and the Grand National Festivals starts here at Musselburgh with our bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials weekend.
“With an electric atmosphere, an excellent choice of places to eat and drink, and the opportunity to see the country’s top owners, trainers, jockeys and horses in action, this is a must-attend event for all jumps racing fans.
“This year we are imitating the unique Irish-influenced atmosphere prevalent at the Cheltenham Festival proper, with quality entertainment and by partnering with Dropkick Murphy’s to add to the enjoyment and spectacle of what is one of Scotland’s premier racing events.”
Musselburgh will also welcome students from across Scotland to the Sunday meeting, carrying on the tradition of introducing younger racegoers to the sport.
Following feedback from last year, the raceday experience will be enhanced with additional bars for students, while guests holding regular raceday tickets can enjoy dedicated facilities, including The Rockavon bar and Café 1816.
Charity collection for former Scotland International raises £8,000 at 1872 Cup match
Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity is delighted to announce that over £8,000 was raised through a charity collection at the 1872 Cup game at Hampden Park last month.
The incredible amount raised by generous rugby fans who attended the December 20th match was raised in aid of Siobhan’s Legacy of Love, which was established in honour of former Scotland International Siobhan Cattigan.
The 2025 collection has also surpassed the £7,500 raised for Siobhan’s Legacy of Love through a similar collection in 2024. Money was raised through bucket collections around the stadium, sales of limited edition matchday programmes and Glasgow Warriors flags, as well as through donations made via QR codes found on screen, in the match programme, and across hospitality areas.
Glasgow Warriors Interim Managing Director Kenny Brown said: “Once again, our supporters showed just how special this club is.
“To raise over £8,000 for Siobhan’s Legacy of Love at Hampden is an incredible achievement and something everyone connected with Glasgow Warriors can be immensely proud of.
“The generosity shown on the day is a fitting tribute to Siobhan’s memory, and these funds will make a real difference to children and families supported by the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. I’d like to thank every supporter who donated, purchased a programme or flag, and the volunteers who gave up their time to make the collection such a success.”
“Our heartfelt thanks to Glasgow Warriors for once again championing Siobhan’s Legacy of Love and honouring the life and memory of our beautiful girl,” said Neil and Morven Cattigan, Siobhan’s parents.
“The kind generosity of every single person who contributed ensures that Siobhan’s compassionate spirit and unwavering dedication to helping others shines brightly, as these vital funds go directly towards supporting sick children in Scotland. Thank you all!”
“We would like to extend our gratitude to the generosity of those who attended the 1872 Cup match last month, and contributed to raising an outstanding £8,000,” added Kirsten Watson, CEO of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.
“Thanks to their support, and the tireless commitment and generosity of Siobhan’s friends and family, young patients with complex health conditions will be able to benefit from specialist support that is only available thanks to Siobhan’s Legacy of Love.”
Founded in 2022 by the friends and family of Siobhan Cattigan, Siobhan’s Legacy of Love honours the life and memory of the Scotland international back-row who proudly earned 19 caps for her country.
Proceeds from the fund have helped children with complex health conditions from across Scotland access hippotherapy, which supports physical and mental health through the sensory and motor stimulation of horse-riding.
Full route revealed for the opening stage of the 2027 Tour de France in Scotland
Start and finish locations announced for 2027 dual Grand Départs in the UK
‘Yellow Line’ illumination links all 10 host towns and cities across the UK
‘Joy’ social impact programme launched to tackle three core missions
The full route of the opening stage of the 2027 Tour de France has been revealed, confirming how the world’s biggest annual sporting event will begin when the men’s race gets underway in Scotland.
The opening stage will start in Edinburgh on Friday 2 July 2027, before heading south through Midlothian, the Scottish Borders, and Dumfries and Galloway, tackling the day’s sole categorised climb on the Côte de Melrose amidst the Eildon Hills, before crossing the border and finishing in Carlisle, outside the city’s medieval castle.
While Edinburgh was confirmed last year as host of the Grand Départ, last night’s announcement provides the first detailed look at the Scottish route, underlining Scotland’s role in setting the tone for the 2027 Tour de France as it begins three days of racing on British roads.
To mark the moment, Edinburgh Castle was illuminated as part of a coordinated UK-wide “Tour de Skies” celebration, with a yellow beam lighting up the capital’s skyline. The activation linked Scotland with nine other host towns and cities across England and Wales, creating a single national moment of anticipation ahead of the historic Grand Départs.
Alongside the announcement of the full UK route for the men’s event, Leeds was also confirmed as the start location for the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. The race will kick off on Friday 30 July 2027 from the Yorkshire city, before crossing the Pennines to Manchester, then returning to Sheffield via the climbs of the Peak District before concluding with a showpiece stage in London.
Following the first stage, the men’s race will head to Keswick, Liverpool and Welshpool, finishing the UK leg of the world’s biggest annual sporting event in Cardiff.
Alongside the host venues, first details of Joy, the social impact programme that will embed community impact at the heart of the 2027 Grand Départ was announced, while British Cycling also confirmed that 7,000 volunteers will be recruited to support the delivery of the world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event.
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John Swinney, First Minister of Scotland: “An iconic sporting event like the Tour de France starting on Edinburgh’s historic streets will be a truly memorable moment for Scotland. From our capital city, the stage will see the cyclists racing through some of our most beautiful countryside in Midlothian, the Scottish Borders – where they will face a tough test on the climb of the Côte de Melrose – and finally Dumfries and Galloway.
“Places such as Newtongrange, with its rich mining heritage; Galashiels, home to Scotland’s textile industry; and Canonbie, on the River Esk, will put their unique stamps on and become part of the history of this legendary event.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase some of the best of Scotland to millions of cycling fans around the world, whether they are watching from home or joining the many people here who will have the opportunity to see some of the world’s finest athletes competing on the streets of their towns and villages.”
Christian Prudhomme, Director, Tour de France (ASO):“The UK has always welcomed the Tour with passion and pride, and the route details we are revealing today reflect the beauty and diversity of Britain’s terrain.
“Bringing both Grand Départs here is a testament to the strength of our partnership with British Cycling and the enthusiasm of the UK.”
Marion Rousse, Director, Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift: “The United Kingdom has played an important role in the history of women’s cycling, with champions such as Lizzie Armitstead-Deignan.
“Starting the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in Leeds is a strong choice, closely linked to this heritage and to the enthusiasm of a public that knows and loves the Tour. These stages clearly reflect the race’s ambition: to continue growing women’s cycling and to inspire future generations.”
Lizzie Deignan, British road and track racing world champion:“Racing the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift has been one of the highlights of my career, and seeing the women’s edition go from strength to strength has been genuinely inspiring.
“To know that both the men’s and women’s races will start here in 2027, and especially that the women will come to my home roads of Yorkshire, is truly special. This is a huge moment for the sport and an opportunity that will inspire countless women and girls to get on their bikes.”
Scottish Cycling’s Head of Performance and Coaching, David Somerville:“Since the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ was announced last year, the Scottish Cycling community has been waiting with bated breath to see where the route would go after departing from Edinburgh, so today is a huge milestone.
“2025 saw two Scottish riders take to the start for the first time, and there is a strong chance we could build on that in 2027.
“What’s even more special is that for the likes of Oscar Onley and Sean Flynn, the route will head on roads they’ve used in training many times as young riders dreaming of racing in the biggest bike race in the world.”
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher said:“I have no doubt that the Tour de France Grand Depart will cement our reputation on the global stage.
“Edinburgh is well used to hosting major festivals and events, and this is an excellent opportunity to showcase the city. To have the world’s largest annual sporting event setting off from the Capital will be a moment of great pride for our residents and will bring our city to new audiences all over the world.
“From boosting our local economy, through to promoting an active lifestyle, greater general participation in cycling, and increased use of active travel infrastructure – I’m confident that the wider legacy of the Tour de France will be a positive one for Edinburgh.”
Midlothian Council Leader Kelly Parry: “We’re thrilled to welcome world-class cycling to Midlothian. Being part of the Tour de France Grand Départ is an incredible opportunity to showcase our stunning landscapes to a global audience and inspire generations to embrace the sport.
“We’ll be proud to say a big ‘bonjour’ to the Tour and, working closely with our communities, ensure this moment leaves a lasting economic, social, and cultural legacy for Midlothian.”
Councillor Euan Jardine, Leader of Scottish Borders Council: ““It is an incredible honour for the Scottish Borders to host the majority of Stage 1 of the 2027 Tour de France as it makes its way through our beautiful countryside and towns from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
“We are passionate about cycling in the Scottish Borders and committed to getting more people on bikes for commuting, pleasure and sport. The Tour de France will provide a huge boost in that respect, and it will also deliver other really valuable social and economic impacts to the area.
“Stage 1 will showcase the South of Scotland as Scotland’s leading cycle destination to an enormous audience around the world and those that come to watch the race in-person, and we can’t wait to welcome them all.”
Dumfries and Galloway Council Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee Chair, Cllr Tracey Little:“Dumfries and Galloway Council is thrilled to be playing a part in the 2027 Tour de France. It is widely regarded as cycling’s premier event and is viewed by millions of people for each kilometre of the race.
“We have a proud history with cycling in our region and this latest chapter of hosting world-class cycling will only add to this.
“Dumfries and Galloway also has strong links with Kirkpatrick MacMillan, who of course built the first ever bicycle as we know it. Our council is looking forward to being part of the action and the social and community benefits that it brings.”
Stephanie Peacock, Minister for Sport, Tourism, Civil Society and Youth: “These routes will reach places few other events can and give people another reason to be proud of where they live. All over the country, they’ll see world-class cyclists pass through their towns, down their high streets and maybe even right past their front doors.
“Events like the Tour de France bring communities together, boost local economies and inspire more people to discover the benefits of sport. We cannot wait to welcome these iconic races next year.”
Simon Morton, Director of Events, UK Sport: “Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of what we expect to be the biggest free-to-attend event ever to be held on these shores.
“Our vision was to host a massive sporting event that would genuinely thread together the countries, cities, and communities of Great Britain, and show what we can achieve when we work together.
“The route details announced today do just that, enabling us to reach, unite, and inspire people right across the country – providing moments of joy for millions, bringing communities together, and delivering lasting benefits beyond race day.
“We believe that live sport is a fundamental part of our society, and that the British public should be able to access and attend big events. By hosting the initial stages of both the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, we’re bringing one of the world’s greatest sporting events directly to people’s doorsteps.
“We at UK Sport are delighted to be playing our part and are proud to support the partners working together to make the 2027 Grand Départs a success.”
Jon Dutton, Chief Executive, British Cycling:“The Grand Départs in 2027 are about so much more than six unforgettable stages of racing – it’s about unlocking lasting change for communities right across Britain.
“Through Joy – our collective, game-changing social impact programme – we will put opportunity, wellbeing and community pride right at the heart of this moment in sporting history.
“By working with partners and creating new, varied ways for people to connect with cycling – whether by riding, volunteering, supporting locally, or engaging through culture and community activity – we can break down barriers and open the sport up in ways that meet people where they are.
“This is a once‑in‑a‑generation chance to build a healthier, more active and more connected nation. It shows the power of major events when they’re done right, and British Cycling is proud to help deliver a legacy that will be felt long after the peloton has left UK shores.”
Paul Bush, Managing Director, Grand Départ GB 2027:“Revealing these new route details of the opening stages is a huge moment for everyone involved and my thanks to all our partners.
“The UK has hosted unforgettable Grand Départs before, but 2027 will be bigger than anything we’ve seen – with both the men’s and women’s pelotons starting here together for the historic very first time.
“This will be a “moment for the Nation” and is a once in a generation opportunity to inspire more people to experience the joy and freedom of cycling.”
Social impact
Alongside the route announcement, organisers also revealed Joy, the social impact programme at the heart of the 2027 Grand Départ, that aims to tackle inactivity and improve mental wellbeing, support communities to thrive, and to make Britain more productive and prosperous.
Six core programmes will be rolled out across the home nations, with organisers working collaboratively with governments, local councils, core delivery partners and community representatives to create opportunities for young people to develop their skills, break down barriers for girls in sport, and to showcase community culture through the voices of Britain.
Additionally, British Cycling will look to recruit more than 7,000 volunteers for the Grand Départ, inviting people across the UK to play a hands-on role in delivering the world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event. Thousands of opportunities will be available across route operations, spectator support and community engagement, offering people of all ages the chance to be part of Tour history, with more details to be announced when the programme is launched in the spring.
To find out more information and keep up-to-date with the 2027 Grand Départs, please visit letourgb.com
The Scottish Parliament has approved government legislation which will help ensure EURO 2028 in Scotland is fair and affordable for supporters and businesses.
At the heart of the UEFA European Championship (Scotland) Bill is a commitment to putting fans first by helping to safeguard against touts and preventing EURO 2028 tickets being sold above face value or for profit in Scotland.
It is part of a package of measures to make sure tickets are sold fairly and accessibly. UEFA has announced that more than 40% of tickets sold for the tournament will be in the lowest price categories and that there will be no surge or dynamic pricing. Tickets will be allocated through a ballot to avoid queues and pressure on fans.
An official UEFA resale platform will also allow tickets to be resold only at face value to avoid ticket touts. Resale outside the official platform will not be authorised, ensuring greater fairness for fans.
Provisions in the Bill will also protect commercial rights by preventing unauthorised street trading and advertising in event zones and give Police Scotland and Glasgow City Council the powers they need to enforce rules fairly.
Minister for Business Richard Lochhead said: “Scotland is the perfect stage to host three of the world’s top sporting events over the next three years – the Commonwealth Games 2026, the Tour de France Grand Depart 2027 and the UEFA EURO 2028 – bringing real and lasting benefits, from supporting jobs and local businesses to showcasing Scotland to millions of people around the world.
“The passage of this Bill confirms that Scotland is ready to co-host EURO 2028 in a way that is fair for supporters and businesses.
“This Bill put fans first, with strong protections against ticket touting and measures to tackle ambush marketing, so supporters can enjoy this once-in-a-generation event on equal terms.”
Executive Director of Supporters Direct Scotland Alan Russell said: “As supporters of our national game, and football in general, we welcome this Bill which we hope will keep tickets affordable and accessible to all.
“By banning the unauthorised sale of tickets for more than face value, UEFA have sent a clear signal that football is for the fans, and that profiteering by ticket touts is not welcome here.
“We’re looking forward to another fantastic tournament, with Hampden packed to the rafters with real fans, and can’t wait to follow Scotland all the way to the final!”
Around three million tickets are expected to go on sale across the tournament, which is being jointly hosted by Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland in June and July 2028.
Six matches will be played at Hampden Park in Glasgow and the Scottish Government is investing up to £73 million to support delivery of EURO 2028 in Scotland.
The tournament is expected to generate an estimated £270 million boost to the Scottish economy, supporting jobs, tourism and local businesses across the country.
£3.2 million of Scottish Government funding will help to reduce barriers to opportunity, bring communities together through shared national moments and showcase Scotland as a world class host of major events.
WORLD CUP FAN PARK AT THE PITT 
