"Fantastic" Tour of Britain 2026 kicks off in Lincolnshire
The 2026 Tour of Britain cycling race officially began in Lincolnshire, with the first stage covering over 113 miles. Thousands of spectators gathered in Lincoln to watch the riders depart and participate in local festivities.
Why it matters
Major sporting events like the Tour of Britain provide significant economic and cultural boosts to regional host cities and local businesses.
Image source, BBC/Harry Parkhill Image caption, About 8,000 people watched the first stage of the Tour of Britain in Lincoln
The first stage of the 2026 Tour of Britain men's cycling race started in Lincolnshire earlier.
Riders set off from Lincoln and raced through towns and villages including Market Rasen, Rothwell, Caistor, Waddingham and Burton before returning to the city centre.
They covered a total of about 113.4 miles (182.5km) with an elevation of 4,570ft (1,393m).
According to Lincolnshire County Council, about 8,000 spectators turned out to cheer the competitors in Lincoln, with mini events and celebrations held along the route.
Image source, BBC/Karl Bird Image caption, The riders set off from Wragby Road in Lincoln
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