Defunct race becomes puncher's paradise: Pidcock joins Alaphilippe and Evenepoel

The Tour of Britain had a remarkable year, experienced a relaunch, thanks partly to good lobbying by Tom Pidcock, and will kick off again in early September. The race can count on some classy participants. The little Brit will be present, and Soudal Quick-Step is also bringing a royal duo to the start.

Looking back at the 2023 edition, which Wout van Aert won with several stage wins for Olav Kooij, the Tour of Britain faced significant challenges. Sponsors went bankrupt, the search for new sponsors was arduous, and the future of the race seemed uncertain. However, against all odds, the Lloyd's Bank Tour of Britain was born, signaling the event's triumphant return.

Alaphilippe, Evenepoel and Pidcock will marvel at first stages

Earlier, we reported about the participation of Soudal Quick-Step with Julian Alaphilippe, who is riding one of his last races for the team, and Remco Evenepoel. Tom Pidcock has also been confirmed as a participant. That is not entirely surprising, as he was one of the key figures in the campaign to revive the race after all. Cycling Weekly now confirms his participation. For Pidcock, it is a continuation of a tumultuous year on the road, in which he disappointed in the Tour but did win the Amstel Gold Race. He also became the Olympic champion on the mountain bike, so now he may compete against the laureate on the road and the time trial.

The Tour of Britain will last six days and start near the border with Scotland. In the first two stages, the riders will already have to contend with more than five thousand altimeters, so it will be a tough tour. The race, which was doomed, can dream of a magnificent overall winner again within a year of Van Aert.