L’Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France 2026
There is no better way to delight cycling fans than to let them experience the atmosphere of the legendary Tour de France — affectionately known as the “Old Lady” — for themselves. With our support, L’Etape Czech Republic will give Czech amateur cyclists that opportunity for the sixth time this year.
Why we support the project
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the event is part of a worldwide series of more than thirty races, connecting Czech cycling with the international scene and bringing inspiration and expertise to the Czech Republic
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it gives Czech amateur cyclists a unique opportunity to experience racing with professional standards of organisation and support
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as an event associated with the Tour de France, it is a major occasion for cyclists, cycling fans and the wider sporting public alike
About the project
L’Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France is a race for the yellow jersey over a choice of distances. It features sprint and climbing competitions for the green and polka-dot jerseys. But it can also be a leisurely ride. Every rider can approach it in their own way, knowing that a medal awaits them at the finish.
The organisers have planned a number of changes for the 2026 edition. The hilly stage, taking place on Saturday 20 June, will once again start and finish in Prague. However, after five editions, it will depart from a new location for the first time: the start is moving away from Strahov, and the route will no longer pass through the Křivoklát area. The peloton will set off from Pankrác Central Park and head towards Neveklov, with the Sázava and Vltava rivers accompanying riders along much of the route.
Following last year’s participation of Tour de France winner and multiple Olympic champion Sir Bradley Wiggins in the peloton, another cycling legend will lead this year’s ambassadors on the hilly stage: Peter Sagan. Born in Žilina, Slovakia, he is the only rider ever to have won three consecutive road race world titles and has topped the Tour de France points classification seven times.
I enjoy it. I really do. I meet new people and discover new places. I think it’s a great way to promote cycling.
— Peter Sagan on L’Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France
Another change this year is that, after two years in South Bohemia, the second Czech event in the L’Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France series is also moving. It will leave Prachatice, which hosted the mountain stage, and head to East Bohemia. On 4 October 2026, Pardubice will host the start of the Czech Republic’s first-ever flat L’Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France stage, responding to longstanding demand from the cycling community. There will be a single 111-kilometre route with just 250 metres of elevation gain.
Like the Tour de France, L’Etape Czech Republic is about more than racing. It also offers a varied programme of accompanying activities for cycling fans, families with children and lovers of French culture and cuisine. The festival park in Prague’s Pankrác district, where the hilly stage begins, will once again feature stalls, attractions, a museum and official Tour de France merchandise.
