This year's Women's Tour of Britain is poised to make history with an unprecedented field of 18 teams set to compete, marking a significant milestone in the event's illustrious journey. The much-anticipated race will kick off in the picturesque Dalby Forest, located in North Yorkshire, on Thursday, June 5.

Among the notable participants is Belgian cyclist Lotte Kopecky, representing Team SD Worx Protime, who will be returning to defend her title. Kopeckys impressive performance in previous editions has made her a fan favorite, and expectations are high as she aims to secure another victory.

Additionally, British champion Pfeiffer Georgi, riding for Team Picnic PostNL, is another key contender in the race, promising to bring fierce competition to the field. The event boasts a remarkable assembly of talent, with twelve World Tour teams participating, and a total of 108 riders ready to showcase their skills.

Teams from ten different countries will be represented in this years edition, emphasizing the international appeal of the competition. Notably, EF Education Oatly and AG Insurance Soudal will be making their debut appearances, further adding to the excitement surrounding the race.

Jonathan Day, managing director of British Cycling Events, expressed his enthusiasm for this years line-up, stating, This years incredible line-up of teams is a testament to the hard work that has gone into the Tour of Britain Women over the past 18 months and shows the huge support that the race has from UCI teams outside of the UK. His comments highlight not only the growth of the event but also the collaborative efforts that have made it possible.

Day continued, We are thrilled to have such a great line-up of UCI Womens World Tour teams coming to the event, showing the appeal of racing in Britain in front of the amazing crowds we attract. At the same time, it will be fantastic to once again see all our British registered womens UCI Continental teams racing in a prestigious event on home roads. This sentiment underscores the significance of the Womens Tour of Britain as a platform for both local talent and international cyclists.

As the race approaches, anticipation builds among cycling enthusiasts, with many looking forward to witnessing the thrilling competition unfold in the scenic landscapes of North Yorkshire. With a rich history of fostering talent and celebrating womens cycling, this years event promises to be a memorable occasion for both participants and spectators alike.