TDU returns to Holdfast Bay

For the first time, Brighton will host a stage start for the 2023 Santos Tour Down Under.

The announcement was made at the launch of the men’s race routes for next year’s event, which will be held from 13-22 January.

City of Holdfast Bay Mayor Amanda Wilson can't wait to welcome back the Santos Tour Down Under after a two-year hiatus due to COVID.

"We are looking forward to welcoming the world’s best cyclists to our shores and showcasing our beautiful part of the world to a global audience, with the spotlight on Brighton," she said.

Brighton will host the start of stage 2 of the race on Thursday 19 January, with the riders heading south along the Esplanade before making the long trip to Victor Harbor.

"Brighton is the perfect location for spectators coming along to watch the race start,” Mayor Wilson said.

“They can enjoy amazing coffee and breakfast first, cheer on the riders as they head south from Brighton, along the Esplanade and in the direction of Victor Harbor - and then continue the day's celebrations with a long lunch.

“And all this with the backdrop of our spectacular coastline, our iconic Brighton jetty and our white, sandy beaches.

"Art lovers will also have to chance to peruse the hundreds of sculptures which will line the foreshore as part of the annual Brighton Jetty Sculptures event, so there will be something for everyone to enjoy."

Santos Tour Down Under race director Stuart O’Grady was excited to announce the new start and finish locations for next year’s race, which includes a race finish at Mount Lofty for the first time in the event’s history.

“We are thrilled Brighton is hosting its first Santos Tour Down Under stage start. Stage two will feature South Australia’s dazzling coastline – fans are invited to gather before racing begins and enjoy the beachside atmosphere. The stage ahead is set to be pivotal,” he said.

“All the race routes showcase South Australia at its very best and we can’t wait welcome the international cycling community back to our state.”

The Santos Tour Down Under is taking place in Adelaide and regional South Australia from 13-22 January 2023. It will feature nine days of elite racing for men and women.

Stages for the Santos Tour Down Under women’s race – a new addition to the UCI Women’s WorldTour – will be launched later this year.