April 22nd, 2025World-Class Cycling set to roll into Ballarat
Some of the world’s best cyclists will roll into Ballarat as part of the Jayco Herald Sun Tour next summer, in a major boost for the region’s businesses and visitor economy.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos this week announced The 2026 Tour backed by the state’s Regional Events Fund, is expected to draw fans from across the country to watch the races.
As part of the five stages of the event, the peloton will ride through both Ballarat CBD and the surrounding regions, showcasing spectacular sites and scenery to fans around the world.
In a win for the city’s hotels, cafes and restaurants – the men and women’s race has been secured for two years, with riders to be based in Ballarat before riding through surrounding shires during the race.
The Tour was first held in Victoria in 1952, with the Labor Government partnering with NewsCorp to bring it back for the first time since 2020.
The first stage will begin just three days after the conclusion of the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, creating a two-week festival of cycling in regional Victoria.
Fans will also have front row seats to the Gran Fondo World Championships in October, meaning Victoria is now home to three world-class cycling races.
The Tour builds on a huge pipeline of regional events coming up across the state, including the Western Bulldogs’ two AFL games and one AFLW game in Ballarat, the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach and the Grampians Grape Escape in Halls Gap – all contributing to the Victoria’s record $40 billion visitor economy.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos: “It is great to bring this world-class event back to Ballarat, showcasing the region and boosting hotels, restaurants and cafes across the region in the process.””
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett: “Not only will the peloton ride through Ballarat, but they will also tackle different terrain across our region, showcasing the best of our communities and bringing the sport to more people.”
