Part I: The Prestige of Hosting the Start

Hosting the Grand Depart is a highly coveted and prestigious honor. This event attracts global attention, functioning as an economic and tourism catalyst, with millions of fans lining the streets and global media shining a spotlight on the host town. With an influx of spectators and teams, the Grand Depart drives significant revenue for the hosting city.

Part II: The Grand Depart: More Than Just A Start Line

The Grand Depart is feted with a plethora of events preceding the actual race start - team presentations, press conferences, public appearances by the riders, and festive activities for the spectators. It's a grand celebration of cycling, where the passion for the sport unites everyone alike.

Part III: Memorable Grand Departs

• London 2007: The Grand Depart in London saw one of the highest turnouts in Tour history. It marked not only the legacy of cycling in Britain but also set the stage for future UK successes in the sport.

• Utrecht 2015: The Dutch city still holds the record as the first city outside France to host the start of the Tour for the sixth time, highlighting the deep-rooted cycling tradition in the Netherlands.

• Düsseldorf 2017: The Grand Depart moved back to Germany after 30 years, signaling the revitalization of the cycling culture in the country.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Cycling and Community

The Grand Depart stands as a testament to the global appeal of cycling and its power to bring communities together. Be it the bustling cheering crowd, the anxious riders, or the grandeur of the city, the event marks an annual celebration of fortitude, community, and shared passion.