Events
Press Release
L’Étape by Tour de France reveals exciting details ahead of its polish debut – experience the spirit of Tour de France in Zakopane – May 2025
L’Étape by Tour de France, the world’s most prestigious amateur cycling series, is coming to Poland for the very first time. This extraordinary event will be held in the picturesque Zakopane, located in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, from May 9th to 11th, 2025.
“Poland has always been a land of cycling, and its story with the Tour de France began decades ago. In 1947, Edward Klabiński became the first Polish cyclist to participate in the ‘Grande Boucle.’ In 1993, Zenon Jaskuła made history as the first Pole to win a stage of the Tour de France, achieving a spectacular victory in Saint-Lary. These pioneers paved the way for new generations and inspired future champions like Michał Kwiatkowski (two-time TDF stage winner) and Rafał Majka (three-time TDF stage winner),” - said Antoine Quiers, Project Manager at Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.).
Three Days of Thrilling Cycling in Zakopane
The event will kick off on May 9, 2025, with the opening of L’Étape Village, which will serve as the heart of the race. The village will feature a registration area, a cycling expo, and numerous attractions for cycling fans.
The L’Étape Village will be situated in the heart of Zakopane, in Dolna Rówień Krupowa, open to everyone to breathe and enjoy the spirit of the Tour de France personally.
On May 10, L’Étape Village will transform into an interactive Tour de France Village, offering:
• A Family Ride covering 25 km,
• Kids Races,
• A Tour de France Museum showcasing historic jerseys,
• Cycling workshops, team presentations, and a pre-race briefing,
• Performances by cycling legends and event ambassadors.
“The inaugural L’Étape by Tour de France in Poland is a significant milestone for us. We are proud to contribute to the legacy of cycling and bring the spirit of the Tour de France to Poland. Our goal was to design a route that combines sport, culture, and community. We believe this first edition will be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved,” - said Jozef Pukalovic, Event Director.
On May 11, 2025, cycling enthusiasts will take on two main routes, starting in Zakopane’s city center and finishing on the famous Gubałówka mountain:
• The Race (84 km) – a challenging, crown route,
• The Ride (62 km) – a less demanding route.
Both routes will guide participants through iconic regional landmarks, offering breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains and surrounding landscapes. In the spirit of the Tour de France, participants can test their sprinting and climbing skills on designated segments along the route.
“Together with Jakub Kliczsz, we aim to design and select a route that is not only beautiful and challenging but also safe. It showcases all the stunning features of the Zakopane region and, with its profile, resembles a ‘classic’ route.” - said Maciek Pawłowski, Race Director.
Winners will receive the iconic polka dot and green jerseys, bringing the spirit of the Tour de France closer to the heart of Poland’s cycling community. The event will conclude with an awards ceremony at L’Étape Village, where the top male and female riders will be honored. Except for the green and polka dot jerseys, the best rider under 26 years will be awarded the white jersey, and the iconic yellow jersey will be given to the best man and woman in The Race or The Ride.
Unique Attractions for Participants and Spectators
L’Étape Village will be the bustling hub of the event, offering a wide range of interactive activities hosted by sponsors, exhibition booths, and a food court. The village will be open during the following hours:
• Friday: 3:00 PM–8:00 PM,
• Saturday: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM,
• Sunday: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Each participant in The Race and The Ride will receive a premium cycling jersey, designed in collaboration with Martombike, as part of their starter pack. This jersey will serve as a unique keepsake from the inaugural L’Étape Poland by Tour de France. The jersey will be unveiled in January 2025 and will combine the traditional spirit of the Tour de France with unique characteristics of the Zakopane region.
"In 2025, a new chapter will be added to the beautiful story between Poland and the Tour de France, with the first ever L’Etape Series event in the country. On May 11th, the first edition of L’Etape Poland will be hosted in Zakopane, where participants will ride on closed roads in the beautiful region of Tatras mountains. Whether as participant or spectator, everyone will have the unique opportunity to experience the Tour de France atmosphere, on the roads and in the race village. And we can’t wait to meet you all during the event! Good luck for your training and see you on the start line!” - mentioned Antoine Quiers, Project Manager at Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.).
Registration Now Open!
Registration for this exciting three-day event is now available on the official L’Étape Poland website.
About the Organizers
BE COOL s.r.o. – Event organizer with extensive experience in hosting international cycling events.
Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.) – A French leader in organizing the world’s most prominent sporting events, including the Tour de France.
L’Étape by Tour de France – A global series of cycling races that allow amateur riders to experience the magic of the Tour de France firsthand.
For more information and registration, visit:
Posted on 20 Jan 2025 at 09h16
