2nd Annual Gran Premio New York City on May 18, 2025

On May 18, 2025, 120 pro cyclists will start just 10 minutes ahead of the GFNY mass participation race with thousands of riders

The UCI 1.2 men’s elite pro race Gran Premio New York City on May 18, 2025 will commence just ten minutes before the 13th Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC, a mass participation race held on the same course.

A revolutionary format in cycling

GFNY introduced this groundbreaking format in 2024, simultaneously integrating professional and mass-participation cycling on the same course. This innovative approach, common in running and triathlon events, breaks new ground in cycling.

On May 18, 120 professional riders from 20 teams will start 10 minutes ahead of thousands of amateurs. The race begins on the traffic-free lower level of the iconic George Washington Bridge, the world’s busiest bridge. Both pros and amateurs tackle the same 137-kilometer (85-mile) loop through Bergen County, NJ, and Rockland County, NY, featuring 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) of climbing.

This format connects fans with their heroes by featuring professionals racing on the same roads as amateurs just moments apart. It elevates the event experience for riders, engages spectators, and provides increased visibility and value for sponsors.

GFNY CEO Uli Fluhme shared his enthusiasm: “Having the pro race just ahead of the GFNY mass participation race has been spectacular. It’s impressive to see how fast the pros go, and with Tibor Del Grosso of Alpecin-Deceuninck winning, we’ve seen rising stars shine. Remarkably, some pros were caught by the GFNY field, demonstrating the high level of amateur racing.”

Saving Pro Cycling from Extinction

Obtaining permits for road closures, essential for professional races, has become increasingly challenging and costly in the United States. Pro cycling once thrived in the U.S., but only three UCI pro men’s road races remain in 2025.

Traditional professional cycling events rely heavily on public and private funding, justified by marketing value for host regions and sponsors. However, the collapse of broadcast television as a reliable medium has rendered this model unsustainable.

Mass participation events like GFNY provide a sustainable solution:

- Direct economic impact: Participants’ tourism drives local businesses’ income, justifying road closures.
- Sponsor engagement: In-person exposure to a targeted audience is far more measurable and impactful than declining TV metrics.
- Operational efficiency: Pairing professional and mass participation races maximizes existing resources and enhances the experience for all stakeholders.

A Women’s Pro Race: A Logical Next Step

Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.

For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.

GP NYC: Teams and Race Format

The 2025 GP NYC will feature professional teams from around the globe, including top squads from the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australasia. Local pro teams will also compete, seizing the opportunity to test themselves against elite competition. With 10 contracts already signed, interested teams must act quickly to secure a spot.

New York City

New York City is the center for finance, commerce, fashion, and international relations, earning its title as the “capital of the World”. It’s only fitting that NYC hosts this international professional cycling race, the Gran Premio New York City. The teams attending will be an international mix, and the GP NYC course will serve as an incredible stage to showcase cycling to the world.

The Course

The 85-mile (137 km) course mimics a Belgian spring classic, favoring all-around riders with its challenging climbs and varied terrain. Starting on the George Washington Bridge, racers enjoy unparalleled views of the NYC skyline and the Hudson River. The race continues through charming towns and scenic nature in Bergen County and Rockland County, with the excitement culminating in a finish and festival at Fort Lee, NJ—a convenient location close to NYC, airports, hotels, and highways.

Weekend activations

Fans will have the opportunity to interact with the pros in several ways during race weekend. The Team Presentation will be held on Saturday in the GFNY Village and riders will be available for autograph sessions and even group rides.

The 13th annual NYC Bike Expo, held together with the packet pickup for riders at the GFNY Festival Village in Fort Lee on May 16 and 17, will be the hub for all activities and provide companies the opportunity to showcase their products to an attractive demographic.