Sportive

Stavanger to host Maserati Haute Route Norway three-day sportive in 2018

Haute Route series heads to Norway's fjords for latest 'compact' event

The Haute Route has expanded its ‘compact’ event series to Norway, with the city of Stavanger to host the inaugural event in 2018, supported by Maserati.

Haute Route launched the three-day ‘compact’ format earlier this year. ‘Compact’ events are based in one location, as opposed to the seven-day, point-to-point rides for which the Haute Route is best known, with the first ride taking place in Alpe d’Huez in July and another planned for Mont Ventoux in October.

Now Stavanger, situated in the south west of Norway, is set to host riders in 2018. RoadCyclingUK took part in a recent test event for next year’s ride and participants can expect breath-taking fjords, jaw-dropping scenery amidst Norway’s rolling countryside, and wild mountains worthy of any cyclist’s bucket list. Look out for a full report and our reflections on riding in Norway.

The inaugural Maserati Haute Route Norway sportive will take place in 2018 (Pic: Manu Molle)

Stavanger, which is served by direct flights from London Heathrow and London Gatwick, has a rich history within Norwegian cycling, with two-time Tour de France stage winner Alexander Kristoff hailing from the city, and the Tour des Fjords, Arctic Race of Norway and Tour of Norway all having held stages in the area.

The Maserati Haute Route Norway will feature timed and ranked racing, and in keeping with other Haute Route events, will see riders enjoy a pro-like experience with safety, mechanical and medical support on the road, massages and a rider’s meal after each day.

“We are delighted to partner with Region Stavanger for the latest move in our global expansion of the Haute Route amateur cycling series,” said Matt Holden, strategic development director for OC Sport, organisers of the Haute Route series.

“With stunning scenery, immaculate roads and a developed infrastructure for tourism, the region was the obvious choice for our first event in Scandinavia. There are good travel connections in and out of Stavanger and we’ll be based in close proximity to the city centre. We’re really excited about our new three-day concept and the benefits it holds for riders.”

The city of Stavanger will host the three-day event (Pic: Manu Molle)

Peter Denton, general manager for Maserati in northern Europe added: “We are delighted to be associated with Haute Route and the inaugural Norway event that will take place in 2018. Norway represents a challenging and rarely explored environment for cyclists.

“Working in partnership with Haute Route to develop this event, as an element of their new three day programme, will ensure that those attending have the added dimension of Maserati vehicle support to make this a truly first class experience.”

For more information and to pre-register for the event, visit the Haute Route website.