Streets and main roads in Bucharest closed on August 31 for the L’Étape Romania by Tour de France cycling race

Bucharest, [August 18, 2025] – The countdown is on! On August 31, the capital will once again become the stage for one of the world’s most spectacular amateur cycling competitions – L’Étape Romania by Tour de France presented by Decathlon. For one day, Bucharest will be “closed to cars, open to cyclists,” with major city roads temporarily blocked to traffic between 07:00 and 14:00.

Now in its fourth edition, the event brings the unmistakable spirit of the Tour de France to Romania and promises a memorable day for more than 2,500 participants, cheered on by thousands of spectators, friends, and families.

Registrations are still open: https://romania.letapeseries.com/registration.

RESTRICTED TRAFFIC IN THE CAPITAL

On August 31, between 07:00 and 14:00, the following streets and main roads in Bucharest will be closed to traffic: Bulevardul Unirii, Bulevardul Mircea Vodă, Splaiul Unirii (towards Bucharest), Bulevardul Decebal, Bulevardul Basarabia, Calea Victoriei, Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta, Bulevardul Schitu Măgureanu, Știrbei Vodă Street, Ion Câmpineanu Street, Șoseaua Kiseleff, Buzești Street, Berzei Street, Vasile Pârvan Street, Bogdan Petriceicu Hașdeu Street, and Bulevardul Libertății.
Organizers are working closely with the Traffic Police to identify the best alternative routes.

A SPECTACULAR START IN FRONT OF PARLIAMENT – JUST LIKE IN PARIS

L’Étape Romania is not just a race but a celebration of cycling as a lifestyle. Participants will experience the thrill of a spectacular start right in front of the Palace of Parliament – an electrifying atmosphere reminiscent of the grand finishes on the Champs-Élysées.

With a format inspired by the Tour de France and adapted to the capital, the routes bring variety, visual spectacle, and a safe cycling experience on completely closed roads.

ROUTES, EVENT SCHEDULE, RACE VILLAGE (AUGUST 31)

The three routes are designed for different ages and experience levels:

• City Adventure – 14 km: for participants aged 7 and above;

• The Ride – 42 km: open to participants aged 15 and above;

• The Race – 85 km: for cyclists aged 15 and above, looking for a true sporting challenge.

The Race Village will once again be located in Constitution Square, serving as the event hub and the meeting point for cycling enthusiasts, bringing the vibe of major international tours:

• 07:30 – Start for City Adventure (14 km);

• 08:30 – Start for The Ride (42 km);

• 10:00 – Start for The Race (85 km);

• 13:30 – Awards ceremony and special activities for participants and spectators.

LOGISTICAL SUPPORT, SAFETY, AND A FESTIVAL ATMOSPHERE

Competitors will have access to 3 refreshment points (Start/Finish, National Arena, Victory Square), as well as fixed and mobile technical support throughout the race.

The event will be assisted by professional medical teams, including SMURD ambulances (Type C), ready to intervene in emergencies.

Constitution Square will be transformed into a true cycling festival, featuring:

• Tour de France exhibition;

• Sports shopping area (gear & nutrition);

• Food court & relaxation zone;

• Massage and pre-race warm-up area, contests with prizes;

• Main stage for activities and award ceremonies.

“L’Étape Romania by Tour de France is more than a race – it’s a shared experience, a celebration of an active lifestyle, and an inspirational moment for the city and community. With each edition, we grow in quality, diversity, and impact. We look forward to welcoming you on August 31 to be part of Romania’s greatest cycling story, where we are honored to once again host His Excellency Nicolas Warnery, the French Ambassador to Romania,” said Tudor Ștefan Mocuța, CEO MPG.

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS

Numerous top Romanian companies have joined the world’s strongest cycling brand. The 2025 edition has Decathlon as Presenting Partner, and is supported by CTMB and Bucharest City Hall. Sponsors include SKODA and RTPR. Official suppliers: Powerbar, URSUS, WASA, Reciclad’OR, Remat Holding, Agriro Fresh, Black Cab, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, Artesia, Secom, Sweeteria, AIRE, CPI Security, Artesana. Event partners: MTB Academy and Bălașa Percussion.

Institutional partners: French Embassy and Romanian Cycling Federation.

Decathlon is presenting sponsor for the second year in a row. Their involvement reflects a long-term commitment to the sports community and a mission to encourage an active and healthy lifestyle. For this edition, Decathlon contributes by:

• Including official participant kit items – jerseys and shoe bags – ensuring comfort and performance on and off the route;

• Hosting an interactive activation stand and expo zone with the latest cycling innovations;

• Offering a fast-repair service available throughout the event, where Decathlon technicians will support cyclists in case of unexpected technical issues.

“Sports challenge us to find balance and push our limits every day. The partnership with L’Étape Romania by Tour de France gives us the opportunity to be part of an experience that unites people through passion and perseverance. We share the same values and firmly believe in the power of sport to transform lives. This race, with its international spirit, builds a more connected and energized community around it. It’s about growing together, not just in performance but in the joy of being active – something we, the Decathlon team, have been doing for the past 16 years,” said Raluca Hristea, Events & Partnerships Leader, Decathlon Romania.

Event recommended by Europa FM.

Media partners: Revista BIZ, News.ro, GOLAZO, Radio România Actualități, Radio România Cultural, Rador, Ziarul Bursa, Romania Journal, Freerider, Aimx.ro, Visit Bucharest, Nine O’ Clock, Revista Sport Magazin, GO4FUN.ro, GabrielSolomon.ro, Biciclistul.ro, RIDERSCLUB.ro, SPORTYA.net, TENIS10, and KLARMEDIA – Media monitoring partner.