The Arctic Race of Norway postponed until 2021

April 30 ^th 2020 - 13:00

The Arctic Race of Norway follows the Norwegian government's guidelines and moves the event to 2021. In 2021, the race will follow the same route as originally planned for this year.

An event without spectators is not desired

On Saturday 25th April, the Norwegian government extended the ban on large events with more than 500 participants until the 1st September. The Arctic Race of Norway was due to start in Tromsø on the 6th of August and end in Harstad on the 9th of August. Based on the authorities' guidelines, it has been decided to move the Arctic Race of Norway to next year. “With both Tromsø and Harstad as host cities, the Arctic Race of Norway will draw tens of thousands of spectators. These spontaneous public celebrations are an important part of the Arctic Race of Norway. With a restriction of 500 participants, it will not be possible to carry out the event. That is why we have decided to postpone the race until next year”, says Knut-Eirik Dybdal, CEO of the Arctic Race of Norway.

Alternative concepts are under consideration

Although there will not be a professional cycling race in Northern Norway in 2020, the organisers are looking for opportunities to make a positive contribution to the region. "The Arctic Race of Norway is much more than just a cycling race. Our vision is to contribute to the development of Northern Norway, and we are in discussion with our partners and local communities to explore several alternative activities, in strict compliance with government regulations. These ideas are under consideration, we will come back to them," concludes Mr. Dybdal. The international cycling calendar for 2021 is not yet finalised, but the Arctic Race of Norway will likely be organised in early August as in previous years.