Everything you need to know about the 2017 Abu Dhabi Tour, including information about the event, the riders taking part, and how you can watch the action unfold.
What is it?
The Abu Dhabi Tour is a men’s cycling stage race featuring some of the best riders in the world. Comprised of four stages, the first two editions in 2015 and 2016 were held in October. This year, however, it will take place in February.
Why the date change? What makes 2017 so special?
In September, cycling's governing body UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) announced that the Abu Dhabi Tour would be upgraded to full UCI World Tour status. It means for the first time, World Tour points will be up for grabs, which in turn will attract even more of the world's top cyclists. The course is longer too.
So when exactly is it?
February 23-26
What’s new about the course?
It is similar to the first two editions, although it has increased in distance from 555 kilometres to 672km. It still has the same four stages: the Madinat Zayed Stage (188km), the Nation Towers Stage (188km), the Al Ain Stage (186km) and the Yas Island Stage (143km). Find out more on the routes here.
Who will be competing?
Considering three of the four stages are set up for sprint finishes, it's no surprise to see cycling's finest fastmen have signed up for the race. Mark Cavendish, the Abu Dhabi Tour ambassador and serial winner of Tour de France stages, will be one of the biggest draws. Marcel Kittel, Andre Greipel, Caleb Ewan and Elia Viviani are the other high-profile sprinters taking part. Outisde of the sprinters, Nairo Quintana, Romain Bardet, Vincenzo Nibali, Rui Costa, Fabio Aru, Steven Kruijswijk and Tejay van Garderen are some of the other star names. The full entry list of riders and teams can be found here.
What about the jerseys?
There are four jerseys to race for: Red Jersey (General Classification by Time), Green Jersey (General Classification by Points), White Jersey (Best Young Rider Classification by Time), and Black Jersey (Intermediate Sprint Classification). Get more information about the jerseys here.
How can fans get involved?
To watch on TV, the race will be shown in its entirety on Abu Dhabi Sports. To cheer on the riders in person, there will be fanzones at each stage and at finish lines.
Visit the official Abu Dhabi Tour website for more information.
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