Tour de France begins search for volunteers ahead of 2027 Grand Départs

With the 2027 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift Grands Départs taking place across Britain, including through Stockport, the historic sporting event has begun the search for volunteers to help the race run smoothly.

Officially known as JOY Makers, the more than 9,000 volunteers will help bring the stages’ excitement to fans and communities.  A range of roles to support event operations and enhance spectator experience are available on both the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift (which will pass through Stockport), with full training provided.

Anyone aged 16 and over is encouraged to apply to be a JOY Maker, with no prior volunteering experience needed. Volunteering is designed to be accessible to all, and, those aged 18 to 25 years old will be eligible to join the Readiness to Work scheme that will also provide package of employability skills training and career-focused mentoring as part of the Tour’s social impact programme.

Together, the volunteer programme and Readiness to Work scheme aim to leave behind a passionate and skilled collective of volunteers, creating a lasting legacy for the Grands Départs in communities like Stockport.  In addition to this legacy, British Cycling – supported by partners across the three nations – is urging government to commit £30 million critical capital investment to deliver a range of new and upgraded cycling facilities across Britain, reaching underserved communities.  

Commenting on the launch of the application portal, Tracy Power,?on behalf of?JOY,?the Grand?Départ?GB 2027 social impact programme, said;

“This is a truly unique volunteering offer and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel the buzz of being a part of a history-making event, while meeting new people and celebrating your local community.

“The JOY Makers programme will create a core of engaged volunteers across Britain, who are willing to show up and get stuck in, dedicating their time to bring local events and activities to life. This will not only benefit the cycling community but also help our local communities to thrive and bolster employability.

“Whether you have volunteered before, are a regular on a bike or are completely new to volunteering and the world of cycling, everyone is welcome as a JOY Maker. We can’t wait to have you join the team, help us celebrate the joy of cycling and showcase your communities through the Grand Départs.”