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Follow us on GoogleaaThe biggest race in the world. The three weeks we’ve been waiting for all year: the 2026 Tour de France is finally here! The rest of the week has made way for this grand cycling festival, so now we’re just waiting for it to begin. This weekend, the first stage will kick off in Barcelona. How and where can you watch the 2026 Tour de France on TV? IDL Pro Cycling takes you through all the options, as well as how to watch the Tour de France in English for free.
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All times are in CEST.
Cycling on TV Sunday, July 5, 2026
| Race | Stage | Start time | Finish time (approx.) | TV details |
| Tour de France | Stage 2 | 13:45 | 17:25 | UK/Europe: HBO MaxUSA: NBC/PeacockCanada FloBikes Australia: SBS on Demand |
Can I watch the Tour de France on TV for free?
Most live broadcasts of the Tour de France require a subscription to the national carrier, especially in the USA, UK or Canada. However many European countries, as well as Australia, offer a free broadcast of the Tour de France.
In Belgium (Sporza or Pickx), France (France.tv), Italy (RaiPlay), the Tour de France is available to watch for free. Another good option is Eurosport, which shows the race live and for free in many European countries. Australian fans can watch the Tour de France for free on SBS and SBS on Demand
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How to use a VPN to watch the Tour de France for free
Using a VPN when travelling to access your home broadcast is a great way to watch the Tour de France with your preferred commentary. By setting your VPN to one of the countries that streams the race for free will also allow you to watch the Tour de France without cost.
For English speakers, the best option to watch the Tour de France for free is the Australian broadcast on SBS on Demand.
There are many VPN options available, with the most popular and widely used being Nord VPN.
How to watch free Tour de France highlights on British TV
After a few years with absolutely no free Tour de France broadcasts on UK TV, Channel 5 and HBO Max announced a deal to bring free-to-air cycling back to British TV.
While it is only highlights, broadcast in the evening after each stage, it will be an hour of free Tour de France racing on British terrestrial TV. It's better than nothing!
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David Bavin-HobbsChief Editor
David has been working in the sports & cycling industry for 16 years. Covering racing, business and technology, he has worked in communications for cycling companies, teams, and as a journalist. His proudest achievement is winning the first bike race he ever entered. He hasn't won a race since.
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