The Tour de France’s visit to Wales next summer has moved a step closer after the Grand Départ Trophy was officially presented to Great Britain in Paris following the final stage of this year's race.

The handover from 2026 host Barcelona, confirms Britain as hosts of both the men's and women's Grands Départs in 2027 – the first time both have started from the same country outside France.

Stage three of the men’s race will travel from Welshpool to Cardiff on Sunday, July 4 next year, taking in Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells and Brecon along the way.

The women’s race will not be visiting Wales.

Communities across Wales are now preparing to welcome the world's male riders, with more than one million spectators expected to line the route of the men’s race next summer as cycling phenom Tadej Pogacar will likely be on the hunt for his sixth Tour de France win and Britain’s best in Tom Pidcock will likely chase stage victories.

Confirmation of a free-to-air broadcast deal for the UK stages via Channel 5 means fans will be able to follow every moment from home as well as at the roadside.

Recruitment continues for the thousands of volunteers needed to deliver the 2027 Grands Départs. Applications are open until September 1, for anyone aged 16 and over, from all backgrounds and levels of experience, at letourgb.com/volunteer

British cycling great Sir Mark Cavendish Mark Cavendish said: “I built my whole career around Le Tour de France. It’s not simply a bike race, it’s an event that captivates everyone that both participates and spectates. A street party over many kilometres of colour, noise and speed.

“Having raced in 2007 and 2014 in the UK, I know first hand how amazing the British public are at Le Tour and can’t wait to see it on an even bigger scale with both races next year. Taking this trophy back to Britain tonight means a lot.”

Paul Bush, managing director of Grand Départ GB 2027, added: “As of now, Great Britain formally steps forward as the next host of the Tour de France – and we couldn’t be more excited and proud.

“We are determined to make 2027 a moment the whole nation can be proud of.”

For more information on all the stages, the JOY social impact programme and to sign up for the Grand Départ GB newsletter for all of the latest news, visit letourgb.com .