Leeds is hosting the Grand Départ again in 2027 and it feels very right

Leeds is heading back into the global cycling spotlight after being announced as a Grand Départ host city in 2027, welcoming the start of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift.

For many people in Leeds and across Yorkshire, the news feels less like a surprise and more like a homecoming. If you were here in 2014, you will remember just how completely the city embraced cycling when the Tour de France came to town.

A city that knows how to do this properly

Back in 2014, Leeds did not just host a race start. It threw a city-wide celebration.

The official opening ceremony at the First Direct Arena set the tone, with music, performances and thousands of people filling the streets. The riders’ parade from the University of Leeds into the city centre drew huge crowds, many of whom saw the Tour riders up close for the first time.

When race day arrived, more than 230,000 people packed into the city centre. The start line on The Headrow, outside Leeds Art Gallery and Leeds Town Hall, became the heart of the action, with the city buzzing from early morning.

Everything turned yellow. Shops joined in. Independents displayed bikes (supporting other indies). Pop-ups appeared. Even the Black Prince statue in City Square was dressed in a yellow jersey. It felt like the whole city was in on the same brilliant secret.

It was not just Leeds that got involved

The celebrations rippled far beyond the city centre. Across Yorkshire, more than 600 bell ringers rang church bells in unison. In nearby Otley, pubs and restaurants temporarily adopted French names. The route rolled out to Harewood House, where the race was officially started in front of huge crowds and global media. It was joyful, welcoming and proudly Yorkshire.

Why Leeds is such a good fit in 2027

That memory matters. Leeds has already shown it can host an international sporting event and make it feel personal, friendly and fun.

Bringing the Grand Départ back in 2027, this time for the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, builds on that legacy. It also reflects how much cycling has become part of the city since 2014, from everyday commuting to grassroots clubs and major events.

Most of all, Leeds knows how to show up. When the world is watching, this city does not do things quietly.

Another big moment for Leeds

Details about routes, events and celebrations will be revealed over the coming months. If history is anything to go by, the city will once again throw itself into it and another good chance to highlight the city to the world.