Denmark's cycling city hopes for Tour de France start

Denmark has begun the lobbying process for Copenhagen, recognised as one of the world's greatest cycling cities, to host the start of the Tour de France.

Copenhagen trekked to Paris in hopes of staging a future Tour de France start (ASO) Source: ASO

The Northern European nation travelled to Paris with an objective of hosting a Tour start sometime between 2019 and 2021.

"It's a real challenge," race director Christian Prudhomme said "The Tour de France would never have been so far north. We're going to carry out studies and examine it closely."

A Danish delegation made the submission in Paris which included three stages - Copenhagen-Copenhagen, Roskilde-Odense and Vejle-Sonderborg.

"Of course there are other candidates but I like this bid in principle, because whatever happens it will help increase the link between everyday cycling and the cycling of champions," Prudhomme said.

"More people use bicycles everyday in Copenhagen than in any other city in the world. We're very proud to receive this bid, it shows that the Tour de France is a beacon."

Copenhagen hosted the UCI Road World Championships in 2011.

“Copenhagen is known around the world as a cycling city and the Tour is one of the most liked sporting events among Danes, Mayor Frank Jensen said. 

"This would be a unique opportunity to show off our country and to encourage the rest of the world to take up cycling.”