The fate of the Tour of Britain men’s race hangs in the balance after British Cycling, the governing body for cycling in the United Kingdom, terminated its agreement with SweetSpot, the race promoter, due to unpaid rights fees.
This decision casts doubt on the future of the race, which has been a staple of the British cycling calendar since 1988. British Cycling claims that SweetSpot owes £700,000 in unpaid installments from 2022. The race promoter has declined to comment on the specific amount or the nature of the dispute but has stated that legal teams are handling the matter.
“The agreed rights fee forms a significant part of British Cycling’s earned income,” stated a memo from the governing body. “The current situation is untenable, with a clear financial impact on our organization and our ability to invest in the sport’s growth.”
British Cycling has indicated its intention to find a new promoter for the race and ensure its successful continuation in 2024. However, SweetSpot’s CEO, Hugh Roberts, has expressed confidence that the current organizers will retain the rights to the event.
“We are in very positive talks, particularly regarding the Women’s Tour, with numerous stakeholders,” Roberts told The Guardian. “I am optimistic that the issues with British Cycling can be overcome. We have to resolve our differences.”
The Tour of Britain has faced financial challenges in recent years. The 2023 Women’s Tour was canceled due to increased running costs and reduced commercial support, and the men’s race was held on a reduced scale.
The dispute between British Cycling and SweetSpot adds to the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Tour of Britain. With no new promoter in sight, the race’s survival hangs in the balance.
