Tour of Scandinavia reduced from 6 to 5 stages
Tour of Scandinavia reduced from 6 to 5 stages. Due to increased costs and lack of funding in Sweden, this year's race program has been reduced from six to five stages. The race's second stage in Sweden from Tanum Strand to Strømstad has been canceled. The remaining stages will proceed as planned.
5th of June 2023 - A significant increase in the cost of purchasing various goods and services, a weakened Norwegian krone, and the fact that we have not been successful in establishing sufficient sponsors in Sweden necessitate the unfortunate decision to eliminate the stage in Sweden this year, says Managing Director Roy Moberg.
- We have put a lot of work into creating a high-quality World Tour race, including an excellent stage in Sweden, but we have come to realize that the revenue base in Sweden is not sufficient. We cannot responsibly organize a World Tour race, with all its commitments, without having control over the finances. Therefore, it was necessary to reduce the stages from six to five this year, Moberg adds.
- We want to clarify that we have not ruled out Sweden for the future and promise to return stronger with a presence in Sweden when there is a solid economic foundation for it, confirms Moberg.
Specifically, the opening stage from Mysen to Halden will now take place on Wednesday, August 23, instead of Tuesday, August 22. All other stages will be held as originally planned.
- The change in the race program presents several logistical and technical challenges that we are currently working on, in collaboration with our partners, says Race Director Anders Eia Linnestad. - It was necessary to make this decision now to ensure an optimal preparation for the race program in August.
This year's Tour of Scandinavia will follow the following program:
Wednesday, August 23 : Mysen – Halden
Thursday, August 24 : Vikersund – Norefjell
Friday, August 25 : Kongsberg – Larvik
Saturday, August 26 : Herning (individual time trial)
Sunday, August 27 : Middelfart – Haderslev
There will be numerous side events as part of this year's race concept, and minor adjustments to the program may occur.
- Overall, the planning and preparations are progressing well. We are witnessing great enthusiasm and cooperation from all host municipalities involved, and we guarantee a world-class international cycling race with the participation of all World Tour teams. We can't wait for an exciting week of racing in August, concludes Moberg.
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