Cancer Research UK announced as headline partner of Etape Caledonia 2025

The UK’s original closed-road cycling event, Etape Caledonia, is set to break new ground with the announcement of Cancer Research UK as its official headline partner. Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading cancer charity, dedicated to saving and improving lives through research. Organised by Motiv Sports UK and taking place on Sunday 11 May 2025 in Highland Perthshire, the partnership means the popular cycling event will help fund lifesaving cancer research.

For almost two decades, Etape Caledonia has attracted over 40,000 cyclists from around the world ranging from teens to octogenarians. Renowned for its breathtaking routes through Highland Perthshire, the event offers three challenging closed-road route options, 40-miles, 55-miles and 85-miles, tailored for both experienced cyclists and those looking to push their limits with their first cyclosportive challenge.

This is first time that Cancer Research UK have sponsored Etape Caledonia as title sponsor. Funds raised through the partnership will support Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work. The charity invested £31 million in Scotland in 2023/24, supporting pioneering research at the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute in Glasgow, and the Scotland Centre between Glasgow and Edinburgh, where research is helping the charity bring about a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer.

Etape Caledonia will once again be expecting 5,000 riders to arrive in the Highland town of Pitlochry on 11 May to tackle challenging route options, take on winding roads, tree-lined avenues, lochs, mountains, and everything in between. Participants will ride on closed roads through picturesque Highland Perthshire villages including Kinloch Rannoch, Coshieville, Fortingall, Dull, Weem, Strathtay, Logierait and Ballinluig. Over the years the event has attracted high profile names including Olympians Eve Muirhead OBE and Chris Boardman, adventurer Mark Beaumont and actor, John Hannah, reinforcing its reputation as a bucket-list sportive.

Head of Partnerships at Motiv Sports UK, Stephanie Millard, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Cancer Research UK as our headline sponsor. This collaboration brings together a shared ethos of challenge, dedication, and community spirit, which we hope to grow together through the three year partnership. By riding in this year’s event, participants will not only enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Highland Perthshire but also contribute to a cause that makes a profound impact on countless lives.”

Ian Allerton, Operations Director, at Motiv Sports UK added: “We’re delighted to have Cancer Research UK as our headline partner of Etape Caledonia. Cyclists participating in our 2025 cyclosportive will have the opportunity to raise funds for Cancer Research UK, helping to advance cutting-edge research and treatments that save lives. With three route options – 40 miles, 55 miles and 85 miles, this year’s event is open to riders of all levels, from seasoned enthusiasts to those embarking on their first sportive challenge. We’re confident this partnership with Cancer Research UK will be a key fundraiser for the charity, and we look forward to working together over the next three years.”

Gareth Mulcahy, Head of Events and Sports for Cancer Research UK, said: “Nearly one in two people will get cancer in their lifetime*, but all of us can support the research that will beat it. We’re really excited to be the official headline partner of Etape Caledonia and together we hope to raise over £100,000 this year, and more through the life of the partnership. Etape Caledonia is an incredible challenge which people of all cycling abilities can enjoy, taking in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, while helping to beat cancer.”

Cyclists can now register now for Etape Caledonia 2025 at www.etapecaledonia.com. Participants can also find fundraising tips and information on how to support Cancer Research UK.