Organisers of the Tour de France have officially confirmed that the city of Metz will host a stage of the world’s most prestigious cycling race in 2028. The announcement follows the news that the 115th edition of the Grande Boucle will begin its journey in the nearby city of Reims, placing the Grand Est region at the heart of the international sporting calendar for that summer.
The return of the peloton to Metz marks a significant milestone for the city, which has not seen a Tour de France stage finish or start since 2012. For international cycling enthusiasts and UK fans who frequently travel across the Channel to witness the race, the inclusion of Metz offers a destination rich in both sporting history and architectural heritage. The city’s administration views the selection as a validation of its ongoing efforts to position itself as a premier hub for major international events.
A Legacy of Cycling Excellence
Metz has a long and storied relationship with the Tour de France, dating back over a century. The race first passed through the city in 1907, during an era when the Tour was still in its infancy and the riders faced grueling stages on heavy steel bicycles. Since then, Metz has appeared on the route map sporadically, with its most recent appearance occurring on July 6, 2012.
That 2012 visit remains etched in the memory of modern cycling fans. It was the sixth stage of the race, starting in Épernay and ending in Metz, where a young Peter Sagan claimed victory in a powerful sprint finish. The day was also notable for a massive crash in the final 25 kilometres, which significantly altered the general classification standings that year. The 2028 return is expected to evoke similar excitement, as the city prepares to welcome the next generation of cycling superstars to its historic streets.
Strategic Growth in the Grand Est
The decision to bring the Tour back to Metz is not an isolated event but part of a broader strategy to showcase the Grand Est region’s capacity for hosting high-profile spectacles. In recent years, Metz has successfully managed several large-scale events that have tested its infrastructure and public engagement. This includes the hosting of the Olympic Flame relay ahead of the Paris 2024 Summer Games, which saw thousands gather at the Place de la République.
Beyond the Olympics, the city has hosted national championships in gymnastics (2022) and judo (2023), and is slated to host the French canoe-kayak championships in 2026. This consistent track record of hosting elite sports has bolstered the city’s reputation with the Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), the body responsible for the Tour de France. The 2028 stage is seen as the culmination of this multi-year effort to attract global attention to the Moselle department.
Promoting Sustainable Mobility
While the Tour de France is a professional sporting event, the local government in Metz is using the 2028 stage to highlight the development of everyday cycling infrastructure. The city has seen a significant increase in the use of bicycles for commuting and leisure, supported by the expansion of dedicated cycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes across the metropolitan area.
For the residents of Metz, the arrival of the Tour is more than just a one-day race; it is a celebration of a culture that prioritises green mobility. The visibility provided by the global broadcast—reaching millions of viewers in the UK and worldwide—will showcase the city’s landscapes and its commitment to becoming a more bike-friendly urban centre. As the 2028 edition approaches, local authorities are expected to announce further investments in cycling paths to ensure the event leaves a lasting legacy for the local population.
Travel and Economic Impact
For British fans planning to follow the 2028 route, Metz offers a highly accessible location. Situated near the borders of Luxembourg and Germany, the city is well-connected by high-speed rail (TGV) and major road networks. The economic impact of a Tour stage is traditionally substantial, with hotels, restaurants, and local businesses expecting a surge in international visitors.
The 2028 Tour de France will not only test the endurance of the riders but also provide a stage for Metz to demonstrate its evolution from a historic fortress city to a modern, vibrant sporting capital. With the Grand Départ in Reims and a subsequent stage in Metz, the opening days of the 2028 race are shaping up to be a definitive tour of Eastern France’s cultural and athletic prowess.
Source: Ville de Metz
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