18 Sep 2024
Innovative Dutch Cycling Race in the Making for Autumn 2025
TIG Sports has initiated a new cycling race in autumn 2025. The course addresses the shared desire of numerous partners and cycling fans to establish a successful and international multi-day cycling event in the Netherlands, without conflicting with existing races. This new race will span six days, taking place at six different locations across the Netherlands.
Maurice Leeser, director of the KNWU, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative: “We welcome any effort that promotes cycling and wholeheartedly support TIG Sports’ initiative. We hope this multi-day race will become a valuable platform for advancing Dutch cycling as a whole.”
Team Visma | Lease a Bike and Team DSM-Firmenich Post NL are also positive. “Our teams have a strong Dutch foundation, and we warmly welcome this innovative new Dutch multi-day race. It’s great for our fans and partners, and above all, a significant boost for Dutch cycling,” said team managers Richard Plugge and Iwan Spekenbrink.
UCI Status 2.1
The race in development is listed on the 2025 UCI calendar with 2.1 status, the entry level that allows professional teams to participate. The ambition is to eventually elevate this status to a UCI WorldTour event, providing a platform where pro teams can conclude the European season.
With extensive experience organizing major sporting events such as the KLM Open, Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix, and various European and World Championships, TIG Sports sees plenty of opportunity in the Netherlands for a race that complements the existing calendar without conflicting with other events.
The autumn race is envisioned as an ideal season finale, attracting a strong field of competitors. TIG Sports aims not only to create a competition for professional teams but also to deliver an unforgettable live experience for visitors, before, during, and after the event.
Additionally, TIG Sports seeks to create a broader social impact by collaborating with the KNWU, NTFU, affiliated clubs, and local entrepreneurs to boost regional economies, promote sports participation, and enhance social cohesion. Over time, there is also the ambition to integrate a women’s race into the event.
Collaboration and Funding
Although specific details about partners and sponsors cannot yet be disclosed, positive discussions are ongoing with both public and private stakeholders. The organization is working on a sustainable financial model to ensure the race is appealing to teams, riders, and cycling fans alike.
Logistics and Sustainability
The race will feature five separate stages plus a prologue, carefully planned with accessibility, sustainability, and rider safety in mind. The event aims to tackle logistical challenges by incorporating fixed loops, reducing traffic disruptions, enhancing safety, and creating a more enjoyable experience for partners and spectators.