The UCI World Cycling Centre (WCC), which houses the headquarters of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), will become a Tour de France hub the weekend of 9-10 July when the 8th and 9th stages come to Switzerland.
After arriving in the Olympic capital Lausanne on Saturday 9 July, the peloton will set off the following day from Aigle, where the UCI WCC is located. After the start in the centre of Aigle, the riders will pass the UCI WCC twice: around 12.30pm before heading towards Montreux and Lake Geneva (Lake Léman), and across both the cantons of Vaud and Fribourg, then again around 4.30pm when they will have 40km (including the mountain pass Pas de Morgins) to reach the finish in Châtel Les Portes du Soleil, in neighbouring France.
As well as hosting the organisers’ (ASO’s) “Relais-Etape”, the UCI WCC will create a Fan Zone in its grounds which will be open both days to all members of the public (from 2pm on Saturday, and from 9.30am on Sunday). Cyclists, families, hardened fans and people wishing to discover the excitement of a stage race for the first time will be catered for during the weekend of activities.
First and foremost, a giant screen will enable visitors to watch the racing live. Meanwhile, activities on offer will include free introductory sessions for track and BMX Racing, and tours of the UCI World Cycling Centre, including the Tour de France exhibition.
As well as the UCI WCC restaurant – open to the public as always -, drinks and food will be available from various food-trucks, including that of the UCI WCC. Children will be kept entertained with a bouncy castle, games and face painting. A DJ will guarantee non-stop ambiance, Gerry Oulevay will be onsite with his funny bikes, and visitors will be able to capture that “selfie” moment at a Sharingbox photo booth. Cycling products and clothing manufactured by the UCI’s partner Santini will be on sale in two stands: one dedicated to the UCI rainbow collection and the other to the official Tour de France collection.
Nearby parking will be indicated on signs from the motorway Exit 18 – St-Triphon, and for those planning to cycle to the UCI WCC, a secure bike park will enable them to make the most of the Fan Zone knowing their bike is safe.
UCI World Cycling Centre Director Jacques Landry said: “With the Tour de France passing by our premises twice in one stage, it is logical that we cater to cycling fans and the local population who want to make the most of this incredible occasion.
“The UCI WCC has former trainees competing in this year’s Tour de France so it’s a very symbolic occasion for all of us. I would encourage everyone to come and join in the celebrations in our dedicated Fan Zone and experience the excitement first-hand.”