Dutch cycling will get a revamped national stage race this fall. The former Simac Ladies Tour and the NIBC Tour of Holland will continue together under one name: Eneco Tour, starting in 2026. Both races will be held simultaneously from October 13 to 18. This marks Eneco's return as a namesake in cycling, while Simac and NIBC will also remain linked to the event as partners.
The women's race hereby makes a temporary step back on the international calendar, from the WorldTour to the 2.1 level. According to organizer Courage Events, this is a conscious choice because of the crowded international calendar and overlap with WorldTour races in China. Despite the lower status, major teams are expected to continue to appear at the start.
The revamped Eneco Tour starts with a prologue in The Hague. Both the men and women ride largely the same course, with stages through South Limburg, the VAM mountain and a time trial in Tilburg. The final is in Arnhem.
More attention for cycling in the Netherlands
What makes this development extra interesting is the timing. The Eneco Tour takes place right after the Dutch Cycling Week. This creates a period in which cycling, cycling and sustainable mobility receive plenty of attention in the Netherlands. That in particular is valuable. Events like the Dutch Cycling Week and the Eneco Tour not only contribute to the sporting experience, but also increase awareness about bicycle use. They inspire people to take the bike more often and show the social value of the bicycle in terms of health, quality of life and sustainability.
In addition, it feels like a positive development that men's and women's cycling are coming together within one event. It creates more visibility, stronger commercial opportunities and a more future-proof model for Dutch stage racing. Not two separate stories, but one joint stage for the sport and for cycling as part of a healthy and sustainable society.
