UCI chief expects no swift calendar overhaul to tackle heat

Cycling must adapt to increasingly hot European summers, but UCI president David Lappartient does not expect drastic changes over the next few years, ANP reported in an article published by Nieuws.nl on 25 September 2026. [1]

Speaking at a press conference at the world championships in Montreal, Lappartient said the Tour de France would remain in July, although other races might be moved slightly. [1]

Earlier in 2026, the UCI invited riders, teams and race organisers, among others, to suggest ideas for cycling’s future. None of the suggestions in that consultation concerned heat measures, ANP reported. The agency said major changes to the cycling calendar were ruled out for at least the next two years. [1]

Lappartient also highlighted the commercial questions surrounding a suggestion to start races as early as 06:00. He questioned whether audiences would watch cycling on television at that hour and what the consequences would be for revenue. He presented early starts as an idea under discussion, rather than an agreed change. [1]