END OF AN ERA - TOUR END

our de France isn't just a sporting event; it's arguably the premier annual spectacle in the world, and that's no exaggeration. Its truly monumental global reach is underscored by a reported cumulative television audience of 3.5 billion viewers annually*. This places the Tour as one of the planet's most-watched sporting events, frequently ranked second only to the FIFA World Cup. Each year, the race is broadcast in approximately 190 countries by around 121 different television channels, collectively delivering over 4,700 hours of TV coverage. 

However, its return this year is tinged with sadness for UK fans, as it marks the last time the nation will enjoy 'free-to-air' coverage. This tradition, which began with Channel 4 in the 1980s and later moved to ITV, is set to conclude in 2025.1 From 2026 onwards, the American company Warner Bros. Discovery (through TNT Sports/Discovery+) will hold exclusive rights, shifting live access behind a paywall and potentially altering the viewing landscape for millions.

*This figure is generally understood to be a cumulative number, meaning it counts everyone who watches at least some portion of the race across its 21 stages. It's not 3.5 billion unique, concurrent viewers at any given moment.

This week I continued my cycling adventures by heading into Sheffield City Centre for the Sheffield Grand Prix. It’s an annual spectacle that transforms the streets of my hometown into a thrilling bicycle racecourse.

I went with my daughter, Rags, and my grandson, Atreus. It was Atreus's very first bike race, and I think he had a fantastic time! To help him get into the spirit, I even bought him a cowbell so he could cheer on the riders.

While there was cycling fun and racing throughout the day, we arrived for the final two races due to my work schedule.

First up was the Women's National Circuit Series Race. A significantly smaller group of riders sprinted for the win, catching another group just before the finish line. Anna Morris ultimately won that sprint, ahead of series leader Robyn Clay and British Circuit Race Champion Kate Richardson. The race concluded in 49 minutes and 54 seconds.

To cap off the event, we watched the Men's National Circuit Series Race. A three-rider breakaway, consisting of Matt Bostock, Alex Beldon, and British Circuit Race Champion Cameron Mason, escaped from the peloton early on and managed to stay clear until the end. Bostock took the win, followed by Beldon and Mason. This race finished in 50 minutes and 44 seconds.

It was a slightly late night for a young boy, but I hope it was an exciting introduction to the world of cycling for Atreus!

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