This summer, London is welcoming back one of the most iconic events of the cycling calendar, the Brompton World Championships (BWC). The BWC will be held alongside the VIA CRITERIUM circuit race at the first edition of the londoncyclefestival.
The world-renowned race, which last took place in the capital in 2019, will return to London on Saturday 22nd June and will see cyclists from across the globe go head to head on a one-of-a-kind criterium circuit in the heart of Coal Drops Yard, Kings Cross.
Brompton, manufacturers of the world’s most recognisable folding bike, has been hosting unique events in locations around the world since 2008. Yet, unlike traditional cycling races, the BWC race is a crazy cycling extravaganza from the starting gun to finishing line. Forget the lycra – instead race participants are encouraged to show off their personality through their choice of cycling outfit, the whackier, the better, before hopping into the saddle of a Brompton and making their way around a specially designed course.
BWC returns to the streets of London as a headline event at the inaugural londoncyclefestival. The VIA CRITERIUM, now in its second year, also headlines over the weekend, bringing a range of cycling activities and race action to central London for enthusiasts, spectators and participants of all ages to enjoy. From 21st to 23rd June, visitors can expect a packed schedule of all forms of bike racing alongside a busy expo village showcasing industry leading brands, all within the iconic Coal Drops Yard.
The BWC, held on the unique VIA CRITERIUM race circuit is an exciting track, featuring a ramped descent and sprint through the two tiered ‘amphitheater’ of Coal Drops Yard, a dog leg on Granary Square and 200m full gas sprint along the VIA Straight. While all competitors will experience thrills on the track, for those with an eye on the competition, there will be an array of prizes up for grabs across a selection of categories, including one-of-a-kind BWC-themed Brompton bikes.
From newbies to pros, all cyclists can take part in the main race, along with plenty of opportunity for the whole Brompton community to get involved with free events such as Brompton test rides, live entertainment, food stalls and merchandise available throughout the weekend.
Michael Sodeau, Director, VIA: “This year, the VIA CRITERIUM returns as part of the londoncyclefestival with a full schedule of racing over the weekend of 21-23 June, with categories for all cyclists, including everything from youth races to men’s and women’s elite racing. We’re proud that the iconic Brompton World Championships will also join the race programme and can’t wait to see the riders from across the globe race in the heart of Kings Cross.”
Shelly Pearce, Global Marketing Leader, Brompton: “We’re so pleased to see the BWC back in Brompton’s home city of London. The event shows off everything that Brompton is about, from highlighting the slick design of our products to celebrating our community of cyclists. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to this year’s event and introduce newcomers to the world of Brompton.”
Those keen to try their chances in this one of a kind race can purchase a ticket HERE, to be the first to know when this year’s ticket ballot opens. Once open, tickets will be available on a first come, first served basis and start from £50. Find out more at Brompton.com.
