Jasper Philipsen wants his crown back. Retiring legend Mark Cavendish won last year’s Tour de France (TDF) Singapore Criterium, beating the Belgian sprinter who won the same event in 2023. With Cavendish gone, Philipsen is looking for redemption, but Jonathan Milan of Italy will be a formidable opponent. This year, Milan succeeded in winning two stages and the green jersey at the race in France, becoming the first Italian to do so since Alessandro Petacchi in 2010.
The two were set to clash in France, but Philipsen’s early crash in Stage 3, just days after taking his first yellow jersey ended the rivalry. The sprint showdown returns this year at the 2025 TDF EFGH Singapore Criterium, which welcomes Embed Financial Group Holdings (EFGH) as its new title sponsor.
The Singapore-based Finternet company’s partnership with one of the world’s most prestigious sports brands underscores its ambition to reshape the future of finance and banking.
“We see strong parallels between the TDF spirit and what we are building at EFGH. They both emphasise connection, resilience, and excellence. The TDF EFGH Singapore Criterium 2025 is not just about sport, but also about showcasing how ecosystems, whether in cycling or finance, can come together to create meaningful impact,” says Dennis Ng, Executive Chairman of EFGH.
This fourth edition will take place at the Marina Bay Street Circuit on the 1 and 2 November. Cycling enthusiasts, pros, and fans from around the world can look forward to a refreshed route, expanded community rides, and a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, there is free access to Padang, Singapore this year.
“Bringing the TDF EFGH Criterium to Singapore allows us to extend this spirit to new audiences and new regions,” says Christian Prudhomme, Director of TDF. Its return is also a testament to the partnership between Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and TDF organisers, Amaury Sport Organisation.
“Each edition here is proof of what’s possible when world-class racing meets a world-class city,” Prudhomme elaborates. “From its skyline to its organisation, Singapore offers a spectacular setting for the athletes and an unforgettable experience for fans.”
The TDF EFGH Singapore Criterium also strengthens the country’s position on the global sporting scene. Lilian Chee, Director, Sports, STB, says, “Singapore is breaking new ground as the first in the world to host TDF-branded events for both professionals and amateurs.
“This milestone supports global rights holders’ continued confidence in Singapore as an ideal test bed for new concepts and ideas, and reinforces our position as a leading international sporting destination.”
While everyone gets to experience the high-speed action around the race precinct—the race unfolds past iconic landmarks, including the Padang, Anderson Bridge, and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay—a premium experience is available at official venue partner Singapore Recreation Club with a grandstand and hospitality package.
In preparing for the event, Agnes Goh, Managing Director of Evoke Exp, emphasises that it will be more than a race, with a number of activities showcasing a spirit of inclusion. On the second day, the public can ride on the same circuit as professionals in L’Attaque.
“With the launch of this new mass participation format, we’re pleased that TDF EFGH Singapore Criterium is bringing people together around their passion for cycling,” says Yannick Talabardon, Race Director.
“It is a pleasure to see local riders attempting the same circuit as the pros; that’s what cycling is all about.” The programme features four categories: a 40-minute team time trial for road cyclists (open to cycling clubs and corporate teams), solo rides for Masters (men aged 35 and above) and Women (aged 17 and above), as well as a unique foldable bike sprint. In the last, participants must locate and unfold their bicycles before racing to cover the distance in 30 minutes.
There’s more to it. Anywheel, a local bike-sharing company, will bring the race spirit to neighbourhoods and streets. This month, users can explore the official race route through the Anywheel app, completing it at their own pace to earn rewards like an Anywheel Bike Pass and an exclusive Tour de France goodie bag.
Another rare opportunity to ride an Anywheel bike around the closed Marina Bay circuit is to participate in the Anywheel Community Cycle (also on 2 November). “We believe cycling should be accessible to everyone, not just professionals,” says Anywheel CEO Htay Aung.
“That’s why we’re proud to support the TDF EFGH Singapore Criterium for the second consecutive year. With over two million users in Singapore, we’re thrilled to invite our community to participate in this once-a-year experience, cycling through the Central Business District with zero traffic and full atmosphere.”
Meanwhile, here’s essential information if you’re planning to attend: Premium spectator tickets for the Finish Line ($68) and Prestige Club ($168) are available on Trip.com. Tickets for the mass participation rides in the L’Attaque series, starting at $80 (solo) and $170 (team), can be purchased at Raceroster.com.
Also check out singaporecriterium.com or follow @tdf.sg on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more information.
