Countdown begins as Derbyshire marks one year until the Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift

Excitement is building, as Derbyshire marks exactly one year to go until the world’s top female cyclists take on Stage 2 of the Tour De France Femmes Avec Zwift, through some of the county’s most iconic landscapes.

The riders will race along roads, such as Winnats Pass and Snake Pass, on Stage 2 of the route between Manchester and Sheffield through Derbyshire, on Saturday 31st July 2027.

Derbyshire County Council is busy preparing for the major international sporting event, which will attract thousands of spectators on both television and in person from across the UK and beyond.

This includes taking the next step towards formally securing the county council’s role as a host authority for the event. At Cabinet on Thursday 30th July 2026, approval was given to initially accept a £2.4 million grant from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) [KA1] to support the hosting of the event and to enter into the necessary funding and host agreements for the race. This funding is subject to final approvals and a final business case being submitted.

The money will support the council with planning and delivery of the event, including traffic management, road resurfacing, operational requirements, safety measures and community engagement.

Derbyshire County Council Leader, Councillor Alan Graves said: “With just one year to go, excitement is growing as Derbyshire prepares to welcome one of the world’s greatest sporting events.

“Stage 2 through Derbyshire will showcase our stunning landscapes, vibrant communities and everything that makes our county such a fantastic place to live, work and visit.

“The benefits extend far beyond race day. The event presents a major opportunity to support tourism, bring visitors into our towns and villages and inspire more people to get involved in cycling and physical activity.

“We know an event of this scale will require road closures and careful planning. Residents, businesses and communities will be kept informed as plans develop over the coming months and we look forward to working with them to make this a memorable occasion for Derbyshire.”

Over the next year the county council will work closely with race organisers, East Midlands Combined County Authority, neighbouring local authorities, emergency services and local communities to prepare for the event.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “With just one year to go until the Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift comes to the East Midlands, we’re one step closer to welcoming one of the world’s greatest sporting events to our region.

“As the event passes through our towns, villages and the Peak District, millions of people around the world will see our stunning landscapes, welcoming communities and everything our region has to offer. It will inspire people to get active, give a real boost to our visitor economy and leave a lasting legacy for local communities.

“We want people across the East Midlands to be part of this incredible event. That’s why I’d encourage anyone who wants to get involved to sign up to become a Joy Maker volunteer. Whether you’re welcoming visitors, helping along the route or creating an unforgettable atmosphere, you’ll be playing an important role in making this a truly memorable occasion.”

The route of Stage 2 through Derbyshire will showcase communities including New Mills, Whaley Bridge, Buxton, Tideswell, Bradwell, Castleton, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Hayfield and Glossop, before crossing Snake Pass towards Sheffield.

Further information about the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift route and Derbyshire’s involvement will be shared as planning progresses.

For more information visit: Grand Départ Grande-Bretagne 2027