Armed Forces Cycling Classic Announces Multi-Year Collaboration with Amaury Sport Organisation

The Armed Forces Cycling Classic, a prominent American cycling event with over 25 years of history, has announced a multi-year partnership with Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.), the French company renowned for organising the Tour de France and other major international races. This collaboration marks a significant step in elevating the Classic from a respected national race to one with growing international prominence. The event, held annually in Arlington, Virginia, and now expanding into Washington, D.C., has become a staple on the U.S. cycling calendar, attracting top domestic and international talent alongside thousands of spectators. Founded in 1998 to celebrate the region’s military heritage while promoting competitive cycling, the Armed Forces Cycling Classic has evolved from a single-day race into a multi-day festival featuring professional competitions, amateur challenges, and community activities. The partnership with A.S.O. aims to build on this strong foundation by enhancing the race’s profile and experience for athletes, sponsors, and fans alike. The involvement of A.S.O. is seen as a transformative moment, comparable to major international sports organisations entering new markets, and it reflects a shared vision of sustainable growth and stewardship of the sport. Key figures involved in the event have expressed optimism about the collaboration’s potential. Robert Laybourn, the race founder and president of Arlington Sports, highlighted the opportunity to give back to cycling on a larger scale through this partnership. Similarly, Yann Le Moenner, General Manager of A.S.O., praised the event’s deep community roots and sustainable development, emphasising their commitment to preserving its unique identity while supporting its expansion. Amazon, the title sponsor since 2025, also reaffirmed its support, recognising the event’s role in uniting communities and celebrating service. Looking ahead, the 2026 Armed Forces Cycling Classic will take place over the weekend of May 30-31 across Washington, D.C., and Arlington, with A.S.O. representatives actively involved during the race weekend to engage with stakeholders and explore future growth opportunities. The event continues to offer a diverse range of activities, from elite professional races to family-friendly and amateur cycling experiences, aiming to inspire broader participation in the sport. This partnership signals a new era for the Classic, positioning it as a key international fixture and highlighting Washington, D.C. as an emerging hub for competitive cycling.