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Tour of Slovenia’s New Date Opens More Opportunities to Showcase Slovenia as a Top Cycling Destination

Tour of Slovenia’s New Date Opens More Opportunities to Showcase Slovenia as a Top Cycling Destination

With the remarkable achievements of Slovenian cycling champions Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič, the Tour of Slovenia has solidified its place as a top sporting event, reinforcing Slovenia’s visibility as a world-class cycling destination.

This scenic yet challenging race not only attracts elite cyclists but also inspires nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore Slovenia’s breathtaking landscapes on two wheels. A key change this year is the race’s earlier schedule, set from 4 to 8 June, bringing fresh innovations and enhanced opportunities for promotion. The Slovenian Tourist Board (STB), a proud partner of the event for the eighth consecutive year, will once again play a vital role in amplifying its global reach. In partnership with Eurosport, the STB will support international broadcasting and advertising efforts. Since 2016, the Tour of Slovenia has captivated 63.5 million viewers across 130 countries through Eurosport’s extensive coverage.

Slovenia: A Land of World-Class Sporting Events and Rich Traditions

The 31st edition of the Tour of Slovenia continues this legacy, bringing together fans, destinations, and local communities, who line the race routes with creative fan figures and vibrant energy. Slovenia is recognized on the global sports stage as a nation of top athletes, where sport and an active lifestyle are an integral part of everyday life. This passion is also reflected in the country’s specialized sports tourism offerings, attracting professional and amateur athletes alike. Many elite cycling teams that participate in the Tour of Slovenia choose the country as a premier training destination, drawn by its diverse terrain, world-class cycling infrastructure and outstanding hospitality.

At the presentation of the 31st Tour of Slovenia, MSc. Maja Pak Olaj, Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board (STB), emphasized the event’s powerful role in promoting Slovenia as a premier active tourism destination: "Cycling is an incredibly effective way to showcase Slovenia – not only as an outstanding destination for active holidays but also as a country of elite athletes and a top host of international sporting events. This is why the Slovenian Tourist Board has been a proud supporter of the Tour of Slovenia for the past eight years, ensuring its live broadcast on Eurosport. Through this coverage, along with advertising and strategic communication efforts in close partnership with destinations, we will once again bring the stunning imagery of Slovenia to millions of viewers worldwide. Eurosport’s content reaches sports fans in more than 130 countries across various platforms, giving our story global visibility and exceptional promotional impact."

Cycling, Slovenia's Flagship Sport, Embodying the Values of Sustainable Tourism

Cycling is not just a sport in Slovenia – it is a powerful connector of sport, tourism and sustainability, a synergy that the Tour of Slovenia exemplifies year after year. The partnership between the Slovenian Tourist Board (STB), race organizers and the destinations hosting the stage starts and finishes grows stronger with each edition. This partnership extends globally, as destinations featured in Eurosport’s extensive TV coverage, which spans over 11 hours across 5 days. The STB creates compelling promotional videos showcasing the country's stunning landscapes and an impressive 220 ads for the “I Feel Slovenia” brand.

More than 20 domestic and international teams, including the best from the world, compete annually, with approximately 140 professional cyclists battling for the coveted green jersey. Among them, Slovenian cycling icons Tadej Pogačar, the world’s best cyclist, and Primož Roglič, the Slovenian record holder for the most victories in prestigious three-week races, stand out. Both have claimed victory in the Tour of Slovenia twice.

The cycling euphoria sparked by their historic successes has become ingrained in Slovenia’s fan culture and sports identity. As a proud host of major international cycling events, Slovenia’s deep love for sport is reflected in its passionate commitment to creating unforgettable moments for athletes and fans alike.

The Race that Unites Cycling Slovenia

This year, the Tour of Slovenia will bring together ten stunning destinations, each hosting the starts and finishes of the five action-packed stages. From Slovenia's sparkling coastline, across the Karst, through the heart of Central Slovenia, down to the rolling hills of Štajerska, and into Pannonian Slovenia, the race will showcase the country's most beautiful cycling corners. The royal stage this year will take riders through the majestic Kamnik-Savinja Alps, culminating in the breathtaking final kilometres in Novo mesto, Slovenia’s cycling capital.

The race kicks off with the first stage from the charming coastal town of Piran to the Ljubljana Marshes, crossing the finish line in Škofljica. The second stage takes cyclists through the northeastern region, from Velenje to Celje, ending in the wellness haven of Rogaška Slatina – each area a proud advocate of cycling, healthy living, sustainable mobility, and outdoor tourism experiences.

The third stage will wind from Majšperk to Ormož through Slovenia's picturesque wine-growing hills, offering spectacular views and thrilling competition. The royal stage, a highlight of the event, takes riders from the vibrant city of Maribor through dense forests, leading to a thrilling mountain finish at Golte in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. The excitement culminates on Sunday with the final stage from Litija to Novo mesto, where the 31st Tour of Slovenia winner will be crowned.

Slovenia: A Heart Beating for Cycling Fans!

This year, Slovenia is once again set to captivate both spectators and athletes alike with an electrifying atmosphere created by passionate fan groups and vibrant destinations. The country's cycling heart beats strong, and the fan support throughout the race is nothing short of exceptional. Each cheering section, unique fan figure, and wave of energy along the routes brings Slovenia’s spirit to life, creating a memorable experience for viewers and commentators alike on Eurosport. The fan experience is a key component of the Tour of Slovenia, and the country’s destinations compete fiercely for the coveted titles of Best Host and Most Original Destination, with local communities striving to showcase their creativity and dedication.

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Photo: Vid Ponikvar, Sportida

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e-mail address: press(at)slovenia.info

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