The Duchess of Edinburgh led celebrations yesterday for the 2027 Tour de France launch at Edinburgh Castle.
The 60-year-old royal appeared in high spirits as the exciting news was revealed that the UK will host the Grand Depart of both the men's and women's races, marking a historic moment as it will be the first time both the men's and women's events have come to the same nation outside France in the same year.
Sophie looked elegant in a Max Mara cream jacket with a wide collar and ankle-length hem, worn over a pale lemon Beulah London dress.
The colour choice was likely a nod to the iconic yellow associated with the prestigious cycling race.
The Duchess of Edinburgh led celebrations yesterday for the 2027 Tour de France launch at Edinburgh Castle
Getty
Her blonde hair was styled in a sophisticated updo with loose strands framing her face.
The Duchess was pictured beaming as the announcement was made, eagerly applauding alongside Scotland's First Minister John Swinney.
Britain has previously hosted parts of the Tour de France four times, in 1974, 1994, 2007 and 2014.
The men's race will begin in Edinburgh, with six stages in total spread across Scotland, England and Wales - three each for the men's and women's races.
Sophie appeared in high spirits as the exciting news was revealed that the UK will host the Grand Depart of both the men's and women's races
Getty
Further details are expected later this year.
Following the announcement, Tour de France Director Christian Prudhomme presented Sophie with her own yellow jersey, much to her delight.
During the event, the Duchess chatted with five-time Olympic champion Dame Laura Kenny and shared a light-hearted moment with retired road racing cyclist Mark Cavendish.
Sophie took time to speak with young cyclists who were dressed in the race's signature yellow colours.
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The event is expected to draw massive crowds, with previous UK stages attracting nearly 5 million spectators.
The project involves a partnership between British Cycling, UK Sport and the UK, Scottish and Welsh governments.
Edinburgh Castle was dramatically lit in yellow to mark the occasion, with pyrotechnics and smoke displays creating a spectacular backdrop.
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney said: "It is a tremendous honour to welcome the Tour de France to Scotland. We know it is one of the most iconic and inspiring contests in sport."
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added: "Staging the Tour de France Femmes for the first time will be an historic occasion and inspire the next generation of female cyclists."
The event was attended by officials from British Cycling, Tour de France representatives and dignitaries from across the UK.
The engagement follows the Duchess of Edinburgh travelling to New York City to attend the UN's 69th Commission on the Status of Women.
