The recent transition of Haute Route cycling events in France from The IRONMAN Group to France Vélo Evénements is set to deliver two event destinations in 2024 – in the Pyrenees and Alps.
Under the guidance of new Deputy Director, Marius Louvet, the look and feel of the premium cycling series is expected to remain unchanged, with the same multi-staged formats and professional-style support services.
The future of other international events in the Haute Route series is currently uncertain. Around the time of its acquisition by IRONMAN in August 2021, in addition to events in the Pyrenees and Alps, Haute Route destinations included the Dolomites, Ventoux, Crans-Montana and Brazil.
Since its original inception in 2011, Haute Route has offered participants the chance to embark on multi-day gran fondos across mountainous landscapes. In November 2023, Haute Route’s French events were acquired by France Vélo Evénements (FVE) – a French firm created earlier in the year with two French shareholders, the French Cycling Federation and international marketing & communications group, Hopscotch.
According to FVE, the ambition is to stay true to Haute Route’s core ethos… ’empowering amateur cyclists to push themselves in a positive and supportive atmosphere with unparalleled support.’
Registrations for the two upcoming events in the Pyrenees and Alps are now open. The first of the two events is Haute Route Pyrenees, taking place from July 1-5, 2024. This five-day ride challenges participants with over 14,000m of elevation. The five stages include the Bagnères-de-Luchon, Cap de Long, Col du Portet, Tourmalet, and Aubisque. With limited spots available of up to 500, the event aims to retain its exclusivity and provide cyclists with an intimate and immersive experience.
Billed as the pinnacle of the Haute Route series, Haute Route Alps will run from August 25-31, 2024. Spanning seven days, this cycling odyssey has over 20,000m of elevation. A limited number of 550 registrations are available.
Eric Conrad, CEO of France Vélo Evénements(FVE), said “We are very proud to become the organizer and promoter of Haute Route in France for the next years. The Haute Route cyclists are incredible cycling lovers, and we will work hard to keep the high standard of this worldwide recognized brand.”
Michel Callot, President of the French Cycling Federation, said “The French Cycling Federation has decided to join its forces with Hopscotch to build an ambitious cycling events calendar, bringing the best of both entities. After the launch of Gravel Fever at the end of 2023 October, reuniting more than 800 gravel riders, we look forward working on new prestigious events such as Haute Route. Promoting Haute Route is a new challenge that completely fits FVE’s strategy.”
Frédéric Bedin, President of Hopscotch, added “Haute Route is a prestigious brand. Hopscotch is used to working for famous brands and events in France and abroad. We are very pleased to have this opportunity and look forward to continuing to provide the experience of a lifetime to cycling enthusiasts.”
www.hauteroute.fr
www.hopscotchgroupe.com
www.ffc.fr
