Grand Départ GB Calls For Tour De France Volunteers

A major volunteer recruitment campaign is underway across Scotland, England, and Wales to find 9,000 individuals to support the historic Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift Grands Départs events taking place in the summer of 2027. These volunteers, known as JOY Makers—a name reflecting the initiative’s connection to Grand Départs GB’s social impact programme—will play an essential role in the success of both races. Tasked with enhancing the experience for cycling fans and local communities across six stages, JOY Makers will help ensure smooth operations throughout these iconic sporting spectacles.

Liverpool is slated to host the conclusion of stage two of the men’s race on Saturday, 3 July 2027. Interested parties can now submit applications to serve as JOY Makers for any of the six stages via the official website, with registrations open until Tuesday, 1 September 2026. The opportunity is open to all individuals aged 16 and above, regardless of prior volunteering experience. Volunteers will be able to choose from a variety of roles dedicated to supporting event logistics and enriching the spectator experience at both the men’s and women’s Tour de France events, receiving comprehensive training ahead of the races.

At the launch of the application period, television presenter Radzi Chinyanganya joined current volunteers in promoting the programme. Reflecting on his own volunteer background, Radzi said, “I wouldn’t be where I am today if I wasn’t a volunteer when I was in my teens. I was a media volunteer and now I’m working in media – I’m living proof that volunteering can lead to something amazing. I’m so excited for everyone to get involved – it will truly be an unforgettable experience.” He also emphasized how volunteering can open doors for young people, noting, “Applying to be a JOY Maker can help you explore new opportunities and navigate your career path, all whilst being part of making history. Whoever you are, whatever your age or your background – JOY Makers is open to everyone – if you want to bring joy, we want you.”

The JOY Makers programme welcomes participants with varying levels of previous volunteering experience, aiming especially to engage young people aged 16 to 25 and underrepresented groups. Young volunteers between 18 and 25 years old will have the chance to participate in the Readiness to Work scheme, a component of the broader JOY social impact initiative. This scheme provides extensive employability training and career mentorship across numerous industries, complementing the practical experience gained through volunteering. Together, these programmes intend to cultivate a skilled and enthusiastic volunteer community, establishing a lasting legacy for the 2027 Grands Départs and the wider British cycling community.

Alongside the volunteer and mentoring initiative, British Cycling, supported by partners across the three nations, is advocating for government backing that includes a £30 million capital investment. This funding aims to develop and upgrade cycling facilities, particularly targeting underserved areas in Britain. Such investment would enhance the existing ‘Places to Ride’ programme—a £15 million government-funded campaign launched after the successful 2019 UCI Yorkshire Road World Championships—already delivering over 150 community cycling projects and generating £13.1 million in NHS savings. Tracy Power, representing JOY and the Grand Départ GB 2027 social impact programme, highlighted the significance of this volunteering opportunity, saying, “This is a truly unique volunteering offer and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel the buzz of being a part of a history-making event, while meeting new people and celebrating your local community.” She further emphasized the programme’s inclusivity and positive impact on both cycling and broader community wellbeing

Read the full article on Liverpool Express here: Read More