A press conference organized by the Department was held this Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the prestigious setting of the Saône-et-Loire Departmental Building to officially announce the arrival of the 2025 Tour de l’Avenir on the roads of Burgundy on August 25 and 26. Two days, three cities, two stages, for both men and women: Saône-et-Loire will be a central player in the great celebration of world cycling’s U23s.
Vitry-en-Charollais will first host the finish of the August 25 stage for both the men and women. The following day, Étang-sur-Arroux will be the shared starting point for both pelotons, while Lugny will crown the women’s stage on August 26th, with the men continuing to Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne (Ain).
Many local and cycling figures attended the presentation, including Daniel THERVILLE, Mayor of Vitry-en-Charollais, and Gérald GORDAT, President of the Grand Charolais Community of Communes.
Dominique COMMEAU, Mayor of Étang-sur-Arroux, accompanied by his deputy in charge of the event, Guillaume GRILLON, praised this structuring project for the town’s visibility and the region’s dynamism.
In Lugny, Hubert JACQUEROUX, President of the Cycling Committee and municipal councilor, was delighted to see his town featured as a stage finish for the women’s race, stating that women’s cycling deserves all the spotlight.
But this conference was especially notable for the presence of Bernard Hinault, five-time winner of the Tour de France and ambassador for the Tour de l’Avenir, who praised “the passion and authenticity of regions like Saône-et-Loire, essential to the future of cycling.”
At his side, Philippe Colliou, race director, praised “the diversity and richness of the route proposed this year.”
It is impossible not to highlight the involvement of André Accary, President of the Saône-et-Loire Department, a great advocate of cycling and ardent promoter of promoting the region. It is under his leadership that the Department is actively committed to making this event a popular and sporting success.
The particularly active local community network has already mobilized around this event. Cycling activities for everyone will be organized throughout the two days: introductory bike rides, introductory sessions, demonstrations, and a unique exhibition of vintage bicycles from the Tournus Bicycle Museum, which will add a touch of heritage to the event.
Key stakeholders also present include Alain Pradier, president of the Véloce association and a key player in organizing the finish in Lugny, and Jacky Perreault, president of the famous La Bernard Thévenet cyclosportive event, as well as deputy mayor of Vitry-en-Charollais, who emphasized the importance of bringing sport to the local area.
The Fire Department and representatives of the Gendarmerie also fully participated in this conference, demonstrating the vigilance placed on ensuring the smooth running and safety of this double stage.
With this rich program, the Saône-et-Loire Department confirms its commitment to cycling and hosting major events. The Tour de l’Avenir, a true antechamber to the Tour de France, will find a welcoming and passionate home there.
The 2025 Tour de l’Avenir promises to be a wonderfully sporting and friendly event in Saône-et-Loire.
See you on August 25th and 26th to experience the rhythm of the new generation of world cycling.
