Tour of Britain exploring possible new stage in Dorset

Dorset had been due to host the penultimate stage seven of the 2022 Tour – the country’s biggest road cycling race – in September.

The peloton was scheduled to travel 175.9km on a scenic route traversing much of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, starting in West Bay and ending in Ferndown for what was expected to be a sprint finish.

However, the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and logistical challenges that subsequently arose meant the race finished three stages early.

READ MORE: Dorset stage cancelled in 2022 Tour of Britain

Gloucestershire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight all saw their stages cancelled, with Movistar rider Gonzalo Serrano declared the winner after only five days of action.

However, the possibility of Dorset hosting a stage in the future appears to be on the agenda.

Speaking to Echosport, a Tour of Britain spokesperson said: “We continue to work with the local authorities who were due to welcome the 2022 race to explore opportunities for them to host the race in the future, so we cannot comment any further at this time.”

It is unclear whether Dorset has a contract to host the race.

Quizzed on the potential existence of such a document, the spokesperson said they could not comment on commercial matters.

A Dorset Council spokesperson added further detail to the Tour’s statement, appearing to confirm that talks for any possible stage in 2023 had not begun.

They said: “We are yet to discuss the possibility of hosting next year’s Tour of Britain race in Dorset, but please note the decision to cancel this year’s Dorset stage was taken by the organisers – not Dorset Council.

“If and when we have some more information, we’ll let everyone know.”

Planning for the 2023 Tour of Britain is under way, with Wales last week announced as the final stage destination as part of a long-term deal with the Welsh Government.

World cycling governing body the UCI has already confirmed the race will take place from Sunday, September 3 to Sunday, September 10.