The organisers of the Ilkley Cycle Races have announced the full race programme for the 2026 event, which returns to the streets of Ilkley on Friday 3 July.
Now firmly established as one of the highlights of the British town-centre racing calendar, the Ilkley Cycle Races will once again bring together elite riders, emerging talent and thousands of spectators for an evening of high-speed racing on the town's challenging 1.5km circuit featuring the iconic Riddings Road climb and fast finish on The Grove.
The 2026 programme offers racing opportunities across a wide range of categories, beginning with the next generation of cycling talent and building towards two prestigious National Circuit Series races.
17:30 – MAS Design Youth Races
Sponsored by MAS Design, the youth races will showcase the next generation of cycling talent, with separate events for Youth A and Youth B riders in both Open and Girls categories. The long-standing support of MAS Design reflects the event's commitment to developing young riders and inspiring future champions.
18:00 – Andy's Open Masters (40+) Race
The evening's Masters race forms part of a strategic partnership between Ilkley Cycle Races and Andy's Man Club, the men's mental health charity dedicated to preventing suicide and ending the stigma surrounding men's mental health. The event organisers are keen to use the profile of one of Yorkshire's leading sporting events to promote awareness, encourage conversations and support the charity's vital work in Ilkley. Riders aged 40 and over will compete in a fiercely contested race that celebrates the enduring passion and competitiveness of veteran cyclists.
Martin Peace, Chair of Ilkley Cycling Club, said:
"We're incredibly proud to be partnering with Andy's Man Club for this year's Masters Race. The Ilkley Cycle Races have always been about more than just sport; they're about bringing people together and creating a positive impact in our community. Andy's Man Club is doing life-saving work in Ilkley, across Yorkshire and beyond, and we're delighted to be able to use our platform to help raise awareness of men's mental health and encourage more people to start conversations that could make a real difference."
18:35 – Bini Brew Open Classic 2/3/4 Race
Sponsored by Bini Brew Co, this fast-paced race provides a showcase for ambitious Category 2, 3 and 4 riders looking to make their mark. Known for its attacking style and unpredictable racing, the Open Classic has become one of the most exciting races of the evening and an important stepping stone for semi-professional riders aspiring to higher levels of competition. Previous winners of this race include international cycling legend Tom Pidcock who won in 2015 before going on to set the current course record, 1:59 just 12 months later.
19:40 – Milly Grace Jewellery Women's Grand Prix
Supported by Milly Grace Jewellery, the Women's Grand Prix forms part of the British Cycling Women's National Circuit Series and attracts many of the country's leading female riders. The race continues to strengthen Ilkley's reputation as a destination for elite women's sport, delivering high-quality competition and inspiring the next generation of female cyclists.
20:40 – Lister Horsfall Open Grand Prix
The headline event of the evening is the Lister Horsfall Open Grand Prix, sponsored by Yorkshire jeweller Lister Horsfall. As a round of the British Cycling Open National Circuit Series, the race will feature some of the UK's top professional and elite riders battling for national ranking points on Ilkley's demanding 1.5km circuit. The event promises a spectacular finale, with thousands of spectators lining The Grove to witness one of the most prestigious town-centre races in the country. The 2026 Lister Horsfall Open Grand Prix is set to be even competitive than usual thanks to the inclusion of a sprint lap, supported by the team from Squats Fitness in Ilkley.
Originally launched to celebrate the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in Yorkshire, the Ilkley Cycle Races have grown into one of the region's premier sporting events. Alongside world-class racing, spectators can enjoy the unique atmosphere that has made the event a favourite among riders and fans alike.
With racing taking place on fully closed roads through the centre of Ilkley, spectators can get closer to the action than almost any other in the UK, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the evening.
The 2026 Ilkley Cycle Races take place on Friday 3 July from 5.30pm, with racing continuing into the evening and culminating in the elite National Series Grand Prix events.
For further information, race entries and event updates, visit www.ilkleycycleraces.co.uk.
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