The 2026 Tour of Britain Women's race is set to be a thrilling spectacle, with a longer route and more challenging stages than ever before. This five-stage race will cover a staggering 635.8 km, making it the longest edition in the event's 12-year history. The riders will face a total of 8,900 meters of climbing, with the final stage being the flattest but still featuring climbs like Sun Rising Hill and Burton Dassett Hills.
One notable Canadian participant is Maggie Coles-Lyster, a sprinter extraordinaire from Human Powered Health. She recently competed in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she won bronze in the Elimination race. Coles-Lyster's presence adds a layer of excitement to the race, as she will be competing against some of the world's best female cyclists.
The race will feature several stars from the recent Tour de France Femmes, including stage winners Lorena Wiebes and Kasia Niewiadoma, as well as Paula Blasi, who finished fifth overall. The opening stage, from Cockermouth to Cockermouth, is the longest at 158.9 km and will take the peloton along Cumbria's coast, with crosswinds and a short cobbled section adding an extra layer of complexity. The second stage, from Clitheroe to Blackpool, is 110.5 km and features the Forest of Bowland and the Nick o' Pendle climb, which averages 7.6% and could shake things up early.
The third stage, from Mold to Great Orme, is the shortest at 104.7 km but is crucial for the overall standings. The final 2.5 km climb averages 6.1%, with sections approaching 15%, making it a key moment for the GC contenders. The fourth stage, from Llanidloes to Hay-on-Wye, is the hardest in terms of climbing, with 2,484 meters of elevation gain, including the Elan Valley climb.
In my opinion, the Tour of Britain Women's race is a testament to the growing strength and popularity of women's cycling. The longer and more challenging route, combined with the presence of top-tier riders, will undoubtedly attract a wide audience and inspire the next generation of female cyclists. The race is a celebration of the sport's diversity and a reminder that women's cycling is a force to be reckoned with.
