Türkiye is set to host an exciting line-up of 20 road cycling events for the 2027 season, offering a thrilling seven-month schedule that attracts international cyclists. Kicking off in February from Antalya and culminating in Istanbul in September, this comprehensive calendar showcases the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, making it a prime destination for cycling enthusiasts worldwide.
Season Kick-Off in Antalya
The 2027 racing season will initiate with the Grand Prix Antalya on February 13. This bustling coastal city will serve as the primary hub as several one-day and multi-day competitions unfold, including the Grand Prix Alaiye in Alanya on February 20 and Grand Prix Alanya a day later. As the month progresses, cyclists will participate in the Grand Prix Pedalia on February 27, followed by the Tour of Antalya from March 4-7. This eventful early series sets a thrilling pace for the season, highlighting the scenic routes and vibrant atmosphere of this Mediterranean region.
Following the initial rounds, the racing schedule transitions to Mersin, where cyclists will compete in the Tour of Mersin from April 8-11, introducing further excitement to the early-year events. This varied calendar ensures that riders have ample opportunities to showcase their skills while experiencing Türkiye’s beautiful terrains.
Highlighting the Presidential Cycling Tour
One of the season’s marquee events, the Presidential Cycling Tour of Türkiye, will take place from April 25 to May 2. Recognized as a significant international cycling competition in the UCI 2.Pro category, this esteemed race is expected to attract elite cyclists from numerous countries. Following the Presidential Tour, the calendar continues with additional races like the Grand Prix Kirikkale on May 29 and the Tour of Anatolia from June 3-6. These events promise to keep the momentum going, further integrating international athletes into Türkiye’s cycling narrative and enhancing the country’s reputation in the sports arena.
Additionally, the Türkiye Road Championships in Gaziantep from June 24-27 will present local cyclists the chance to demonstrate their prowess on a significant stage, promoting the sport at both national and international levels.
Summer Races in Erzurum and Beyond
As summer arrives, the attention shifts to Erzurum, where events like the Grand Prix Palandoken and the Tour of Erzurum will take place in early July. This is a crucial phase of the season, with multiple back-to-back races including the Tour of Kahramanmaras, Tour of Ordu, and Tour of Samsun throughout August. These events not only highlight the varying landscapes of Türkiye but also engage more spectators and foster a growing cycling culture across the nation.
Grand Finale in Istanbul
The grand finale of the 2027 cycling season will conclude with the prestigious Tour of Istanbul, a UCI 2.1 event scheduled for September 2-5. This closing event encapsulates the diversity of Türkiye’s cycling calendar, starting from the sun-drenched shores of Antalya to the urban vibrance of Istanbul, showcasing a comprehensive journey through the nation’s rich culture and history.
The Turkish Cycling Federation, under the leadership of President Emin Muftuoglu, views this robust calendar as an opportunity to elevate cycling’s popularity across Türkiye. Muftuoglu emphasized the significance of international races in promoting cycling to a broader audience, providing local riders with essential exposure and experience to nurture the sport’s growth throughout the country. This ambitious plan aims to merge global cycling excellence with Türkiye’s captivating landscapes, ensuring an exhilarating experience for participants and spectators alike.