Tour de France 2028: Grand Départ Returns to Reims After Two Years Abroad

In a move that has already sparked excitement among cycling enthusiasts and local officials, Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) revealed that Reims will host the opening stages of the 115th edition of the world’s most prestigious cycling race. The decision comes as the Tour continues its practice of international Grand Départs—following starts in Barcelona (2027) and London (2026)—but represents a strategic return to France’s cycling roots.

The 2028 edition will kick off on June 24, 2028, nearly a month earlier than recent years to accommodate the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This earlier start date also aligns with the Tour’s tradition of avoiding direct competition with other major sporting events.

Why Reims? The Strategic Choice

Reims was selected for its rich cycling history and symbolic significance. The city, located in the Grand Est region, has long been associated with French cycling culture, hosting stages of the Tour in previous editions. Its central location in northeastern France also provides a strategic starting point that allows the race to quickly spread across multiple regions, including the Ardennes and Lorraine—areas known for their challenging terrain.

The choice of Reims over other French contenders like Paris or Nice reflects ASO’s desire to decentralize the event while still maintaining a strong French identity. “Reims represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation,” said a source familiar with the decision. “It’s a city that understands the Tour’s global appeal while grounding the race in its French heritage.”

The Early Stages: A Taste of Eastern France

While the full 2028 route remains under wraps, organizers have confirmed that the first four stages will take place in the Grand Est region, offering a mix of flat sprints, rolling hills, and the occasional cobbled sector. Cities like Charleville-Mézières, Épernay (famous for its champagne route), and Metz will play host to early battles, setting the tone for the three-week journey.

The inclusion of Verdun, a city with deep historical significance, adds a layer of narrative to the opening stages. Known for its role in World War I, Verdun’s appearance on the 2028 route could provide a powerful backdrop for the race’s opening days, blending sport with cultural heritage—a hallmark of the Tour’s ability to transcend athletics.

Context: The Tour’s Global and Local Journey

The 2028 Grand Départ in Reims is part of a broader trend by ASO to internationalize the Tour while maintaining its French soul. Since 2017, the race has started outside France in six of the last seven editions, with stops in Belgium, Italy, the UK, and Spain. This global rotation has helped the Tour expand its audience, particularly in markets where cycling is growing, such as the United States and Asia.

However, the return to Reims in 2028 signals a subtle shift. “The Tour is a French institution, and we want to ensure that its roots are never forgotten,” explained a cycling insider. “Starting in Reims allows us to celebrate that heritage while still offering something fresh to our global audience.”

The last time the Tour started in France was in 2021, when it departed from Brittany. That edition, like 2028, was marked by a strong regional identity, with stages weaving through the rugged coastline and historic towns. The 2028 start in Reims promises a similar regional flavor, albeit in a different part of the country.

What Fans Should Watch For

With the route details still under wraps, here are three key storylines to follow as the 2028 Tour approaches:

1. The Early Battles: The first four stages in Grand Est will likely feature tactical racing, with teams positioning themselves for the mountain stages. Look for breakaways and sprint finishes in cities like Metz and Épernay.
2. Reims’ Role: How will the city leverage its champagne heritage to create a memorable opening? Expect a mix of traditional cycling events and local cultural celebrations.
3. The Shift to June: Starting in late June means higher temperatures and potential heat management challenges. Teams will need to adapt their strategies for the early stages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is the Tour starting earlier in 2028?

A: The earlier start date is primarily to avoid overlapping with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which are scheduled for late July and August. This also aligns with the Tour’s tradition of starting in late June or early July.

Q: Will the 2028 Tour include any special commemorative elements?

A: While no official details have been released, the inclusion of Verdun in the early stages suggests a focus on historical themes. Fans can expect tributes to French cycling history and regional culture.

Q: How will the earlier start affect the overall route?

A: The earlier start may allow for a slightly different pacing of the race, with more emphasis on early mountain stages to build momentum. However, the core structure—three weeks with a mix of terrain—will likely remain similar to previous editions.

What’s Next?

The full 2028 route will be unveiled by ASO in the coming months, with additional details expected in late 2027. Fans can also look forward to official merchandise releases, team announcements, and the traditional pre-Tour build-up in Reims.

For now, the focus remains on celebrating this historic return to France. As cycling journalist Paul Kimmage noted, “The Tour de France is a storyteller, and Reims in 2028 promises to be one of its most compelling chapters yet.”