Philadelphia Cycling Classic​ Returning In 2026 After 10-Year Hiatus

PHILADELPHIA — After a decade hiatus, Philadelphia Cycling Classic is coming back to the City of Brotherly Love.

The Philadelphia Cycling Classic will return to Philadelphia on Aug. 30, 2026.

With the cycling event set to return next year, Philadelphia is on track to be the city at the nation's center of attention due to the semi semiquincentennial events, the MLB All-Star Game, and FIFA World Cup matches all being held locally.

"Philadelphia is proud to welcome back one of the world’s greatest sporting events," Mayor Cherelle L. Parker said. "An exceptional, experienced team is in place to build on the legacy of this event for many years to come."

Parker was joined by former Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter during a news conference Tuesday on the event's return.

Nutter is part of a triumvirate, along with Eric Robbins and Carlos Rogers, comprising Race Street Partners, the group that owns the race and is leading the new organizing team.

"This is Philadelphia’s race; it is the people’s race," Nutter said. It is open and free for all to engage with and enjoy. There are so many Philadelphians who remember growing up with this race, and we are beyond excited to be bringing it back in spectacular fashion for generations to come."

The race is sponsored by AmeriGas Propane L.P., which is headquartered in King of Prussia, and has tapped 6ABC Action News as its broadcast and streaming partner, allowing fans to watch the race live on the day of.

The Philadelphia Cycling Classic will travel the original race route, spotlighting Philadelphia landmarks such as the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, the Manayunk Wall, Strawberry Mansion, Lemon Hill, and Boathouse Row.

Former American pro cyclist Freddie Rodriguez, who holds the record with four U.S. Pro championships, three of which were won in Philadelphia, called the Philadelphia course as one of the most challenging on the international racing calendar and one that cyclists eagerly anticipated.

"I had a history of doing well here, so Philly became home to me," he said. "It was a monumental race for American cycling, and the racers, both Americans and Europeans, understood the quality of the race. The fact that it’s coming back with the original course is phenomenal. The Parkway feels like a stadium. There’s so much action for spectators, especially in tight areas where the race gets difficult like the 17 percent grade climb up the Manayunk Wall. Philly is one of the select races in the U.S. that can truly call itself a classic."

The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is sanctioned by both USA Cycling and Union Cycliste Internationale. It will be one of just two Union Cycliste Internationale sanctioned, one-day road races at the 1.1 category in the U.S. in 2026 and offers equal prizes, a total of $75,000 each, for the women’s and men’s races.

Both the pro women’s and men’s races will start and finish on the Parkway. The women’s race will total about 62 miles on the 14.4-mile circuit, with the men’s race totaling about 120 miles.

"We are delighted that this storied race is making its comeback," USA Cycling CEO Brendan Quirk said. "Its return says so much about America’s longstanding connection to world-class road racing,” said Quirk. “Philadelphia holds a special place in cycling history in this country – the caliber of athletes from all over the world who competed there is legendary. So, welcome back, Philadelphia. We can’t wait to be there with you in August 2026."

The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is envisioned as a multi-day festival that supports neighborhoods, small businesses, schools, and civic engagement—creating opportunities for lasting economic and social impact throughout the city.

The race also offers a range of tiered sponsorship opportunities designed to encourage broad participation from both the corporate sector and community partners. These tiers provide varying levels of visibility and engagement, from top-tier branding opportunities to more community-centered activations. All sponsorship packages include customizable experiences, VIP hospitality access, and the ability to align with charitable initiatives.

Every sponsorship level is built around visibility, impact, and authentic engagement with Philadelphia’s diverse communities.

For more information, sponsorship inquiries, and media requests, please contact the Philadelphia Cycling Classic at info@philadelphiacyclingclassic.com or go online here.

The Philadelphia Cycling Classic first debuted in 1985 and grew into one of the most prestigious, professional road races for an international peloton in North America.