The actual Tour de France isn't coming to Las Vegas, but cyclists will get a chance to feel what it's like to be a part of the biggest cycling event in the world.
L'Etape by Tour de France, a series designed to bring the feel of the famed bicycle race to other parts of the world, will have courses in Summerlin from May 13-14, 2023, starting at Las Vegas Ballpark and stretching through Red Rock Canyon.
There will be 75-mile, 45-mile, and 25-mile courses for experienced cyclists, as well as a designated 10-mile family ride, designed by Tour de France experts.
"The Tour de France is an iconic brand, and we want to partner with communities that are an iconic brand," said Michael Brown, the race director for L'Etape. "We felt Las Vegas was a really good opportunity for us to expand the brand of L'Etape, not only in North America, but globally."
There will be an Athletes Village nearby the ballpark, featuring vendors, food trucks and the Tour de France museum, which will be free to the public.
L'Etape covers 26 events across 21 countries. Las Vegas will join San Antonio as the only two cities to have L'Etape in the United States.
"We know Las Vegas is quickly becoming the world's greatest arena. It is an arena for all sports," said Brian Yost, the Chief Operating Officer of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "And now, we're able to bring to the sporting world and Las Vegas, the greatest bicycle event in the world with the greatest outdoor we have in Southern Nevada."
Riders will get the chance to compete for the yellow jersey given to the winner of the Tour de France each year.
"I can't imagine a better event and better cycling opportunities in Southern Nevada than the Tour de France L'Etape brand," said Keely Brooks of the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition. "[L'Etape] came to the right folks first. They wanted to understand who they needed to partner with in the community in order to help the community."
Danny Webster can be reached at 702-259-8814 or [email protected]. Follow Danny on Twitter at twitter.com/DannyWebster21.