Grand Départ of the Tour de France in 2029?

A Vision Beyond Sport

“This is real now,” said Prime Minister Golob. “This project is dedicated to the next generation, to inspire them with the idea that Slovenia as a country dares to dream the biggest dreams. I’m proud that, after months of preparations, we officially confirmed our intention and that I will personally hand over our letter of intent to the Tour de France organisers next week.”

He emphasized that although the decision was not simple, it was clear: Slovenia owes this step to its exceptional cyclists and to its people. “This is not just about sport. The Tour de France is one of the most recognisable global sporting events. Hosting it would show the world that Slovenia is not just a beautiful country with hardworking and happy people, we are also a confident country that dares to stand alongside the biggest.”

Golob added that hosting the Grand Départ would be a tremendous opportunity for sport, for the economy, for international recognition. “Everywhere I go as Prime Minister, people ask about our athletes. They may not yet know all of Slovenia’s natural treasures, but after 2029, they will.”

A Tribute to Cycling and Its Legacy

Pavel Marđonović, President of the Cycling Federation of Slovenia, expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and the government for supporting what he called a historic bid. “Alongside the Olympic Games and World Championships, the Tour de France is the pinnacle of global cycling and of global sport. It is watched by millions on television and live by millions more along the route.”

He highlighted that the Tour transcends sport. “It places the spotlight on the host country, its landscapes, cities, and people. It’s a celebration of perseverance, teamwork, human willpower and promotional power that few other summer events can match.”

According to Marđonović, bringing the Tour to Slovenia would also be a tribute to the countless volunteers, coaches, club staff, and enthusiasts who have shaped over a century of Slovenian cycling history.

Bogdan Fink, Director of the Tour of Slovenia, echoed this sentiment: “The Tour de France is not just a race. It’s a platform for connection between people, regions, and ideas. The results we’ve seen with the Tour of Slovenia show what is possible. Today, our race is broadcasted in over 130 countries. Hosting the Grand Départ would build on that success and promote movement, health, and sustainable living.”

The Land of the Bicycle

Cycling has deep roots in Slovenia as the world's oldest wooden wheel with an axle, discovered near Ljubljana, is over 5,200 years old. The bicycle here is more than a means of transport — it is a symbol of progress, connection, and vitality. Slovenia is a country where natural beauty meets a passion for healthy, active living. We are a nation of sports lovers, and few sports capture our hearts like cycling.

With the global success of riders like Tadej Pogačar, Primož Roglič, and Matej Mohorič, Slovenia has become a cycling powerhouse. But their victories have done more than fill podiums, they have inspired a wave of cycling enthusiasm, with growing numbers of recreational riders and young people seeing sport as a future.

A Historic Moment in the Making

Bringing the Tour de France Grand Départ to Slovenia would be more than an incredible sporting event. It would be a historic moment. Slovenia offers everything: dramatic landscapes, world-class infrastructure, lively cities, rich culture, and extensive experience in hosting top-level international competitions.

Slovenia is proud of its commitment to sustainability and its ability to connect sport with the economy, tourism, and society. For Slovenia, Tour de France is an opportunity to tell its story not just as a host, but as a partner in a global movement that unites sport, culture, nature, and community.