Gearing up for the 2026 Cape Town Cycle Tour

CYCLING enthusiasts across South Africa and beyond are gearing up for one of the most anticipated events on the global sporting calendar. On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the 48th edition of the Cape Town Cycle Tour will take over the streets of the Mother City, welcoming thousands of riders eager to conquer either the iconic 109km route or the vibrant 42km option.

This world-famous race, known as the largest timed cycling event on the planet, continues to grow in prestige and global appeal. The 2026 edition marks a major milestone as the Cape Town Cycle Tour officially joins the UCI Gran Fondo World Series, a premier collection of more than 35 international mass-participation cycling events. This recognition positions the event among the elite in world cycling, offering participants the chance to qualify for the 2026 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, set to take place from August 26 to 30 in Niseko, Japan.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde celebrated the announcement, saying the international recognition will strengthen Cape Town and the province’s reputation as a world-class sporting destination. “The Cape Town Cycle Tour has always been a proud showcase of our province’s spirit, and this international recognition will only strengthen our reputation as a world-class sporting destination,” he said.

Golazo CEO Bob Verbeeck echoed that enthusiasm, calling the inclusion in the UCI Gran Fondo World Series an incredible honour. “This will see riders from around the globe experience the breathtaking beauty of Cape Town while earning their chance to compete at the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships,” he said.

A strengthened global partnership

This global elevation comes alongside a growing partnership with Golazo, an international sports and events agency renowned for producing large-scale sporting spectacles across Europe and Africa. Their portfolio includes the UCI Road World Championships in 2021, the African Cycling Championships in 2024, and the prestigious Diamond League meeting in Brussels.

With extensive experience in mass-participation events such as the UCI Gran Fondo Series and UCI World Gravel Series, Golazo’s involvement is expected to enhance the Cycle Tour’s global profile and attract a surge of international participants.

“We are honoured to partner with the Cape Town Cycle Tour to further enhance this iconic event and share its unique spirit with a global audience,” said Bruce Parker Forsyth, CEO of Golazo South Africa. “Together, we aim to elevate the experience for every rider while showcasing the remarkable beauty and energy of Cape Town to cyclists around the world.”

A celebration of cycling

For many, the Cape Town Cycle Tour is more than a race, it is a celebration of community, athleticism, and the joy of cycling on fully closed roads through one of the world’s most scenic environments.

David Bellairs, CEO of the Cape Town Cycle Tour, says the event remains a highlight for cyclists of all levels. “Every year we see new riders join, seasoned cyclists return, and international visitors marvel at the route’s beauty. 2026 will be no different; it promises to be another unforgettable edition of this truly iconic event.”

Entries for the 2026 Cape Town Cycle Tour are officially open. Riders can secure their spot by visiting the event’s website, https://www.capetowncycletour.com/.