Sadness in Derby as Women’s Tour 2023 axed due to rising costs and funding issues

A Derby council chief has expressed her sadness after it was announced a prestigious women’s cycle race will not take place this summer due to financial issues.

The organisers of the Women’s Tour have revealed the 2023 race will no longer go ahead - but it is scheduled to return next year.

Stage four of the international women’s cycle race - which describes itself as “award-winning and trailblazing” - had been due to finish in Derby on June 10.

Women’s Tour organisers said a 20 per cent rise in running costs compared to the 2022 race, combined with a lack of funding, make it impossible to hold this year’s event.

Claire Davenport, director of leisure, culture and tourism for Derby City Council, said: “The postponement of the Women’s Tour is a shame, though understandable in the current climate.

“We will continue to explore future possibilities for hosting world-class cycling events in the city.

“Derby takes pride in providing cycling opportunities for the East Midlands and we look forward to hosting the British BMX Championships later this year.”

As home to one of only six velodromes in the UK, Derby has built a reputation as a top city for cycling.

In February, Women’s Tour organisers Sweetspot said sponsorship was “urgently needed” for the event and they launched a crowdfunding campaign.

But now a spokesperson for Sweetspot said: “Owing to a combination of increased running costs - approximately 20% higher in comparison to the 2022 race - a reduced level of commercial support, and challenges in finding a vehicle partner to replace Skoda to help create a safe racing environment for riders and spectators alike, it has proved impossible to deliver the event that was proposed for June.

“The decision has been taken now following a three-week renewed appeal for funding, which included an incredibly popular crowdfunding scheme that was enthusiastically supported by over 500 race fans.

“The Women’s Tour thanks everybody who donated for their unwavering loyalty, as well as all the messages of goodwill that have been sent.

“A refunds process, overseen by the GoFundMe platform, has begun.

“This outcome is incredibly disappointing for the stakeholders set to host this year’s race, who have shown great support and understanding throughout this process.

“We will continue to work with them to explore opportunities for hosting world-class cycling events in the near future.”

Organisers said they are working on plans for next year’s event, which will mark the 10th anniversary of the inaugural Women’s Tour.

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