Cure Leukaemia, the official UK charity partner of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, is proud to announce the return of “The Route” for its second edition in July 2025. This unique women-only cycling challenge gives amateur riders the rare opportunity to tackle every stage of the TDFFaZ one day ahead of the professional race, all in support of blood cancer research.

From 25th July to 2nd August, participants will cover the full 1,165-kilometre TDFFaZ route over nine gruelling stages, mirroring the professional women’s peloton. With places still available the event offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the same closed roads, iconic climbs and race-day atmosphere as the world’s best female cyclists.

Fundraising efforts

Cure Leukaemia launched The ATICUS Network (Accelerating Trials in Children Undergoing Stem Cell Transplant) in September 2024, a groundbreaking initiative focused on revolutionising treatments for childhood blood cancer through world-first transplant trials.

Each participant in “The Route” must commit to raising at least £10,000, supporting The ATICUS Network and the collaboration of 11 leading UK children’s hospitals, including Great Ormond Street, Royal Manchester Children’s and Birmingham Children’s Hospital, with the funds raised by “The Route” contributing to the costs associated with opening and running the network.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, “The Route” aims to double its fundraising impact in 2025. With 10 riders already confirmed, the event is on track to exceed expectations. In addition to their fundraising pledge, participants are required to pay the £4,000 entry fee to take part, covering all event support.

A first-class professional experience

Riders in "The Route" will experience professional-level support, including:

• First-class accommodation
• Official "The Route" cycling apparel from Santini, Cure Leukaemia’s official kit supplier
• Dedicated physiotherapists and mechanics throughout the challenge
• High-quality nutrition, both on and off the bike
• Rolling road closures, ensuring a safe and uninterrupted ride
• The experience culminates in a grand five-star finish, celebrating each participant’s incredible achievement.

Empowering Women in Cycling

“The Route” offers a unique opportunity for women to experience what it takes to complete the most famous race on the cycling calendar in a supportive, inclusive and empowering atmosphere.

Guided by experts

Event Director Andy Cook a veteran cycling coach with 25 years of experience, will lead the logistics and on-road support team. With extensive international touring experience, Andy and his team will provide expert guidance before and during the event, ensuring every participant is fully prepared for this demanding challenge.

With limited places available, “The Route” is expected to fill quickly. Women interested in taking on this unforgettable challenge can register their interest at: https://theroute.co.uk/#interestform

“Building on the remarkable success of The Tour 21, we recognised the need for an equally challenging and inspiring event exclusively for women. “The Route” offers the unique opportunity to experience the full Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in an inclusive, supportive atmosphere, while supporting our mission to give hope to children with blood cancer through the ATICUS network," said James McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Cure Leukaemia.

Find out more about Cure Leukaemia

Find out more about The Route

Donate by visiting The Route 2025 JustGiving Page