The German Cycling Federation (BDR) and Amaury Sport Organisation – owner and organiser of the Tour de France – have struck an agreement for the sustainable promotion of cycling in Germany with the return of the Deutschland Tour as the centrepiece of the strategy.

The announcement that the 2017 Tour de France will start in Düsseldorf, together with the amazing achievements of a new generation of German professional cyclists in the world's biggest races, provide fertile ground for the love of cycling to continue growing in Germany. ASO and the BDR, eager to support its expansion, have signed a long-term agreement to revive the Deutschland Tour and establish it as a top event over a ten-year horizon. Both partners are aiming to put the Deutschland Tour back on the calendar over the coming two years, as soon as all the key assets for a great stage race and a top-notch organisation are put in place.

While the ribbon for the start of this “new generation” of the Deutschland Tour will only be cut within the next two years, its route will certainly play to the strengths of German riders and give them an opportunity to shine in front of their home crowds: sprints and courses inspired by the great classics will be included in the stage designs and deliver a thrilling race. The event also aims to become the ideal springboard for the biggest German talents, including the next generation of “Grand Tour” riders as well as an essential date in the calendar for the stars of the international peloton.

"This is a pivotal agreement for the BDR. The new Deutschland Tour will help spread the love of cycling in Germany and increase the popularity of all its facets. 27 million Germans already ride their bicycles regularly, and many German cities have recognised the importance of cycling in their mobility strategies. This is why the Deutschland Tour will not only be a pure sporting event, but a huge celebration of cycling", explains Rudolf Scharping, the President of the German Cycling Federation.

ASO General Manager Yann Le Moënner adds: "We share with the BDR the goal to make the Deutschland Tour attractive to wide swathes of the population and use the race to show them just how much fun cycling can be. As well as the elite competition, featuring the biggest champions from Germany and abroad, we will include rides for the thousands of dedicated amateurs and draw up an exciting programme for the fans and the wider public in the host cities."