Cycling legends to compete in L’Etape Dubai by Tour de France

Tour de France cycling legends and former Tour de France stage winners — Jan Svorada and Peter Velits have announced their participation in the inaugural L’Etape Dubai by Tour de France powered by Skoda L’Etape Dubai (1-2 February).

The global stars were announced at a press conference held in Dubai, and will be in the city ahead of the race to participate in pre-event festivities, meet local fans, and help shine a spotlight on Dubai’s rapidly expanding cycling culture.

Among the event’s ambassadors are Svorada, the Czech cycling icon whose three Tour de France stage victories include a famous 2001 Champs-Elysees triumph, and who also boasts wins at the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a Espana; Velits, a three-time World Champion in the Team Time Trial and runner-up at the 2010 Vuelta a España; his brother Martin Velits, a key member of elite cycling teams; and Jakub Truksa, a promising talent representing the sport’s next generation.

“Dubai’s energy is something special—it’s the perfect place to bring the spirit of the Tour de France,” said Svorada.

“Being part of the inaugural L’Etape Dubai feels personal to me. Cycling has shaped my life, and I’m excited to share my experiences, ride alongside participants, and connect with people who share the same passion. It’s moments like these that remind us why we fell in love with the sport in the first place.”

L’Etape Dubai by Tour de France’s main race day, scheduled for 2nd February, will allow cyclists of all skill levels to tackle one of two distinct routes: a 101km course designed for seasoned riders named ‘The Race’ and a 50km route suitable for enthusiasts seeking a memorable challenge dubbed ‘The Ride’. Both courses will highlight the city’s cutting-edge architectural marvels and striking desert panoramas, departing from Dubai Design District (D3) and ending at Expo Village. L’Etape organisers confirmed that two designated sprint sections, proudly sponsored by Škoda, will be included in the route, enabling participants to test their speed and compete for the iconic Škoda Green Jersey with one short climb section.

Activities begin on 31st January at the Tour de France Village at Expo Village Park.

As the momentum builds, organisers have also opened registration for the ‘Welcome Dubai Rides’. Set to run from January 29 to 31 at Al Qudra and Nad Al Sheba cycle tracks, these free preparatory rides offer newcomers and seasoned cyclists alike the chance to familiarise themselves with the city’s vibrant cycling scene before race weekend.

They are the conclusion of a series of rides that have been organised throughout January in conjunction with The Cycle Hub, helping cycling enthusiasts to train and connect with one another.

With globally renowned legends headlining the activities, two days of challenging and accessible cycling routes, and an array of community-oriented activities, organisers are confident that this inaugural edition will leave a lasting impact.

Ali Omar, Director of Sports Events Department at Dubai Sports Council expressed his enthusiasm for hosting a globally recognised event of this calibre: Dubai has become a veritable global hub for hosting and organizing international cycling races and events. Dubai, in fact, has become a preferred global destination for cycling enthusiasts, as it includes diverse and safe tracks that extend for hundreds of kilometres in different areas of the Emirate.

“We are pleased that the L’Etape Dubai race will join the list of many international championships and events held in Dubai. The place also gains a special advantage through its association with the Tour de France, which is by far the most prestigious ride of the three Grand Tours.”