The Mayor of London is revealing that the Grand Depart of the Tour de France will be held in the UK capital for the first time ever in July 2007. The event is set to generate an economic boost for London estimated at around £56 million when it comes to the city next summer.
The cycle race will attract an estimated 1 million spectators in July 2007, creating substantial benefits for attractions, hotels, shops, restaurants and other local businesses.

Full details of the event, including the route, will be revealed on February 9th, but it is expected that the activities in July 2007 will bring Londoners out onto the streets and attract large numbers of day and overnight visitors to London.

The announcement comes just 6 months after the news that London is to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012 and reinforces the UK capital’s position as a leading city for sporting events.

James Bidwell, Visit London’s Chief Executive said: “We welcome the news that London is to host The Grand Depart of The Tour de France in 2007. It will provide us with a great opportunity to attract visitors from all over the world and showcase key attractions in our global city. It is further proof of London’s ability to attract and host world-class events.”
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