The famous French Granfondo "L'Ardéchoise" will host the 2024 (15 June) and 2025 (14 June) editions of the UEC Granfondo European Championships.
Internationally recognised as one of the most prestigious and attractive mass-participation events, the Ardéchoise attracts nearly 15,000 enthusiasts from all over Europe and beyond to Saint-Félicien, in the heart of the Ardèche département in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
Enrico Della Casa, President of the Union Européenne de Cyclisme: "Talking about L'Ardèche in the world of cycling is undoubtedly talking about an emblematic event, and the fact that the 2024 and 2025 European Championships will be held in Saint-Félicien is a source of pride and satisfaction for our federation.
Over the 30 years of its existence, the Ardéchoise has perfectly integrated the philosophy of mass events, combining the sporting aspect with the specific features of the events in terms of tourism, economic spin-offs and promotion of the region, not forgetting investment in cycling-related infrastructure and services, thereby improving the quality of life of local people over the long term. The Ardèche has a very close and well-established relationship with cycling, and these two major events are in addition to the 2025 Road European Championships.
The real strength of this event has always been the involvement of the entire local community; an involvement that can create a sense of belonging and pride among all the participants, as well as providing fundamental support to the organisation of the event.
Organising an event of this magnitude requires meticulous planning and management, but when it is well executed, as in the case of L'Ardéchoise with all the volunteers who support the management committee and the staff throughout the year, it can bring lasting benefits to the region and consequently to our sport.
I'd also like to thank the French Cycling Federation and its President Michel Callot, who has always been attentive and sensitive to our activity.
Louis Clozel, President of L'Ardéchoise: "We're proud to be able to host such an event on our roads for the next two years. It's recognition of our expertise and the importance of our event. It's also a great reward for our many volunteers.
Registration for the 2024 event opens on 4 December.
