Farewell Critérium du Dauphiné, Bonjour Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
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Farewell Critérium du Dauphiné, Bonjour Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: A New Era for a Cycling Classic.
In a move that blends tradition with regional pride, the iconic Critérium du Dauphiné will be rebranded as the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes starting in 2026. The announcement, made jointly by the Région Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and race organizer A.S.O., marks a significant shift for one of cycling’s most prestigious stage races.
A Name Steeped in Geography
The rebranding reflects the race’s deepening ties to the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, which has hosted the event’s dramatic climbs and scenic routes for over a decade. According to Christian Prudhomme, director of cycling at A.S.O., the new name offers “more geographical coherence” while honoring the race’s evolution.
The region’s president, Fabrice Pannekoucke, echoed this sentiment, calling the change a “natural progression” that celebrates the area’s cycling heritage and its role as a proving ground for Tour de France hopefuls.
A Legacy Reimagined
First held in 1947, the Critérium du Dauphiné has long been considered a dress rehearsal for the Tour de France. Its mountainous terrain and elite competition have crowned legends and tested champions. Tadej Pogačar, who claimed victory in the final edition under the Dauphiné name in 2025, now holds a unique place in the race’s storied history.
While some fans have expressed nostalgia for the original name, organizers insist the essence of the race remains unchanged: a world-class challenge set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps and Massif Central.
What’s Next?
The inaugural Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes will take place from 7 to 14 June 2026. Expect the same fierce competition, unpredictable weather, and punishing climbs—but with a renewed focus on showcasing the full geographic and cultural richness of the region.
As the peloton rolls forward under a new banner, one thing is certain: the spirit of the Dauphiné lives on, just with a fresh coat of paint and a broader sense of place.