Welsh cycling icon Geraint Thomas has shared his mixed feelings about the exciting news that the Tour de France is finally coming to Wales in 2027. The Cardiff-born former champion couldn’t help but feel a twinge of frustration, joking that the legendary cycling event is arriving just a bit too late for him as he’s retired from professional racing.
Despite his playful annoyance, Geraint is genuinely thrilled about the Tour showcasing the stunning Welsh landscapes and culture to the world. He remarked, “It’s the biggest annual sporting event, and it’s the reason I got into cycling. Seeing it here is going to be amazing.” He’s eagerly anticipating the race whizzing past iconic spots like Cote de Rhigos and Caerphilly Mountain, sites sure to challenge and inspire.
Geraint reminisced about the pride he felt representing Wales at the Champs Elysees and expressed enthusiasm for the role he’ll play as an ambassador during the event. He believes the Tour will not only spotlight Wales’s beauty but also ignite a passion for cycling among locals.
Christian Prudhomme, Tour de France general director, and Eluned Morgan, the First Minister of Wales, joined Geraint at the announcement, underscoring the importance of this monumental event for the country.
For Geraint, this event holds a particularly personal significance as the route passes just 100 metres from his local pub, The Birch, and Maindy Stadium, where his love for cycling began. He promises it’ll be an unforgettable experience, with Welsh enthusiasm turning spots like Caerphilly Mountain into the new Alpe d’Huez.
He’s already looking forward to seeing the Welsh streets lined with cheering fans and promises an atmosphere that’ll rival any Tour stage. Geraint summed it up perfectly, saying, “I can’t wait to witness it.” It’s going to be epic, and we can’t wait either!