Decathlon Joins the Elite Circle of L’Etape Slovenia Strategic Partners
he Merkur zavarovalnica L’Étape Slovenia by Tour de France cycling festival is welcoming a new strategic partner: Decathlon. The shorter Sunday route, (80km) will now carry the name Decathlon the Ride.
L’Étape Slovenia brings together recreational cyclists each year who want to experience the authentic feel of a Tour de France-style race – on closed roads, in a large peloton, and with the unique energy created by spectators along the route. Within this story, cycling challenges for all generations play an important role as part of the two-day event. From both a competitive and personal performance perspective, the shorter Sunday route plays a key role – now officially known as Decathlon the Ride (80 km).
Decathlon The Ride – the shorter route (80 km)
This route represents the ideal entry point into the world of L’Étape Slovenia – challenging enough to deliver a true sporting test, yet accessible enough for a wide range of recreational road cyclists. For this reason, the partnership with Decathlon, a brand that promotes accessibility to sport and movement, is a natural step in the event’s development.
80 kilometers in the spirit of the Tour de France
Decathlon The Ride, approximately 80 km long with a varied route profile, combines three key elements: climbs, scenic views, and the excitement of a major race atmosphere. With its balanced elevation and dynamic terrain, it offers a cycling experience that goes beyond a simple recreational ride.
The route takes place on closed roads and includes refreshment stations, technical assistance, and safety vehicles. Participants can compete for the iconic Tour de France jerseys, and every finisher receives a commemorative “finisher” medal upon crossing the finish line.
An atmosphere everyone wants to be part of
On this distance, everything that makes L’Étape Slovenia special comes to life: riding in a peloton, managing pace, drafting strategies, and the feeling of being part of something bigger. It’s not just an individual effort, but a shared experience where each kilometer tells a new story.
A route for challenge—and enjoyment above all
Decathlon The Ride is designed to provide a complete cycling experience: from the first kilometers in a compact group, through the dynamic race segments, to moments where power, endurance, and smart energy management come into play.
For many, it represents the ideal distance:
- as an introduction to larger cycling events,
- as a step up from smaller recreational rides, or
- as a faster, more “explosive” alternative to the longer distance.
Decathlon The Ride is a route where you can ride for a personal best—or simply enjoy the atmosphere. And this duality is its greatest value.
Decathlon The Ride: more than just a distance
Following the example of the more demanding route, the shorter distance with the name Decathlon The Ride clearly expresses its mission: to bring cycling closer to as many people as possible.
Decathlon has long been building a story of sport for everyone—from beginners to passionate recreational athletes—and this philosophy aligns perfectly with the spirit of L’Étape Slovenia.
At the same time, Decathlon is not only present at the recreational level but also actively supports professional cycling, collaborating with established teams at the highest level. This connection between recreational and elite sport further highlights the breadth of their approach—from the first kilometer to the podium.
A special emphasis is also placed on the French origin of the brand, which naturally connects with the identity of the event. Just as L’Étape Slovenia is built on the legacy of the Tour de France, Decathlon carries French DNA—creating an additional layer of meaning for the partnership.
More than an event: an experience that starts before the race
A new feature that further deepens the connection with participants is that Decathlon stores will become part of the experience. Participants of the Sunday route will be able to collect their race numbers and welcome packages in advance at selected Decathlon locations. More details will be shared through official channels.
In addition, selected stores will offer the official Merkur zavarovalnica L’Étape Slovenia collection, including jerseys that allow cyclists to feel part of the event even before the start—and to wear it proudly long after the finish.
An experience that stays with you
The 80 km route may not carry the title of the “queen stage,” but for many it represents exactly that—a personal victory, a milestone, an achievement, and a story to take home. At the finish line, it’s not just about speed, but about how the journey was experienced: the feeling, the energy, and the people you shared it with.
Decathlon The Ride is more than just a sporting challenge. It is an experience where triumph, personal records, and unforgettable moments on the bike come together.
