THE WOMEN’S Tour 2023 – which was to see Stratford and Leamington play major roles – has been cancelled after organisers failed to pull together enough funding.
Stratford was set to host the race’s Grand Depart for the first time ever on Wednesday June 7.
Over 100 of the world’s best riders were to have gathered in the town before heading out into the Warwickshire countryside for an undulating day of racing set entirely within Warwickshire.
And stage one had been due to finish in Leamington. The town has hosted two previous stages of the Women’s Tour and were watched by more than 20,000 spectators – generating a boost worth over £750,000 to the town’s economy.
Just last month, Women’s Tour organisers Sweetspot said sponsorship was “urgently needed” for the British event and started a crowdfunding campaign.
But now Sweetspot said it has “proved impossible to deliver the event” because of “increased running costs and a reduced level of commercial support”.
Plans are under way for the race to return in 2024, in what would be the 10th anniversary of its first edition.
Sweetspot said in an official statement: “The Women’s Tour thanks everybody who donated for their unwavering loyalty, as well as all the messages of goodwill that have been sent.
“This outcome is incredibly disappointing for the stakeholders set to host this year’s race, who have shown great support and understanding throughout this process.
“We will continue to work with them to explore opportunities for hosting world-class cycling events in the near future.”
The crowdfunding campaign raised over £18,000 with the help of more than 500 individuals but did not secure the larger deals required. The funding gap remained at around £400,000 when the event was cancelled today (Friday).
Those who contributed to the campaign will be refunded.
