UK Ends Free-to-Air Tour de France Coverage After 40 Years

The end of free-to-air coverage of the **Tour de France** in the UK marks a significant shift in the landscape of sports broadcasting. After more than four decades, the iconic race will no longer be available to viewers on terrestrial television, effective from **2024**. This change, driven by financial considerations and declining viewership, raises concerns about the future of cycling in a country where the sport has historically struggled to gain a strong foothold.

From **1985 to 2001**, the Tour was broadcast on **Channel 4**, before moving to **ITV** in **2002**. The rights have now been secured exclusively by **Warner Bros Discovery**, which owns **TNT Sports**. Starting in **2024**, viewers will need to subscribe to TNT Sports at a cost of **£30.99** ($41.67) per month to watch the race, a significant barrier for many potential fans.

According to **Ned Boulting**, ITV’s lead commentator for the Tour, the decision was partly influenced by the channel’s financial losses related to the event. He noted that while **600,000 viewers** tuned in for the opening day of this year’s race, viewership has consistently declined since the peak of the cycling boom in the UK, which was sparked by **Bradley Wiggins**’ historic victory in **2012**, watched by **3.6 million** viewers.

The diminishing audience numbers reflect a broader trend. Despite the success of British riders, including **Chris Froome** and **Geraint Thomas**, cycling remains a niche sport in the UK. The absence of free-to-air coverage is likely to hinder its growth. The current trend mirrors the situation in cricket, which saw a dramatic decline in viewership and participation after losing its free broadcast status in **2005**.

During the Tour’s initial years on UK television, British participation was limited, with only three riders in **1985**. In contrast, this year saw **11 British riders** at the start line, a testament to the sport’s gradual development. Yet, the correlation between free coverage and increased interest cannot be ignored. Many current athletes, including **David Millar**, have cited watching the Tour on television as a key influence in their decision to pursue cycling.

The commentary team, including the iconic **Phil Liggett**, who has been with the Tour since its early days, has helped shape the viewing experience. Liggett, along with **Gary Imlach**, has made the event accessible to a broad audience. Their departure from mainstream coverage may leave a void in engaging new viewers. TNT Sports aims to provide in-depth analysis through shows like **The Breakaway**, but the shift in content style and the increased number of advertisement breaks have received criticism from fans.

The financial implications of subscription-based television cannot be overstated. Many households may find the annual cost of nearly **£800** for sports coverage, including Sky Sports and TNT Sports, prohibitive. This cost, combined with subscriptions to popular streaming services, could amount to nearly **£1,400** annually, creating a barrier to access for a significant portion of the population.

Looking ahead, the **2027 Tour de France** is set to begin in **Edinburgh**, sparking hope for future terrestrial coverage. **Christian Prudhomme**, the race’s general director, expressed optimism that discussions would lead to free-to-air broadcasts during the event. The return of the Tour to the UK presents a critical opportunity to engage a new generation of cyclists and fans.

As the Tour de France continues to expand its global reach, the loss of free coverage in the UK could hinder the growth of cycling as a mainstream sport. Without increased visibility and accessibility, the next wave of talent may struggle to emerge, potentially stunting the development of cycling in a country that has seen glimpses of its potential.