Plans to bring the opening stages of the Tour de France to the Czech Republic are again moving forward.

A government-backed proposal targets 2029, linking the bid to the anniversary of the fall of communism. The current concept outlines three stages beginning in Prague, followed by starts in Tábor and Český Krumlov.

Discussions intensified after Czech representatives met race director Christian Prudhomme in Paris late last year. He described the bid positively, noting both Prague’s international profile and the country’s experience hosting major sporting events.

The draft route includes three stages designed for different rider types. If approved, the ceremonial team presentation would take place on Old Town Square.

The proposed opening stage would be a demanding 188-kilometre ride around Prague with more than 2,500 metres of climbing. The route highlights historic landmarks such as Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, passes near Křivoklát Castle, continues below Karlštejn Castle, and finishes through central Prague at Wenceslas Square, Powder Gate and Hradčanské Square.

Stage two would shift south. Starting in Tábor, a city known for cyclocross, the course heads through the Třeboňsko landscape, passes Hluboká Castle, and finishes in České Budějovice. With moderate elevation gain, the stage is expected to favour sprinters.

The third stage would target climbers. From Český Krumlov the route runs past Rožmberk Castle, the Vyšší Brod Monastery, through Prachatice, around Lipno Reservoir, via Vimperk, and ends with a mountain finish in Kvilda after more than 3,000 metres of climbing.

Organisers are also discussing logistics aimed at limiting air travel. Instead of flying directly after the Czech stages, the race convoy would travel by road toward France, part of a broader push to reduce the event’s environmental footprint.

The Tour has started outside France 26 times since its first foreign launch in 1954. Any host country must submit a formal bid and demonstrate financial, logistical and promotional capacity. Czech officials say negotiations are ongoing and no final decision has been made.

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