Mark Cavenidsh becomes ambassador of the 25th edition of Tour Down Under: "It's going to be an incredible festival"

Mark Cavendish will be attending the next year's Tour Down Under as ambassador of the race. The British Tour de France stage victories record holder is expected to have a busy schedule in his first year as non-cyclist and the Australian race will be his "season-opener".

"I'm excited to say that I'm going to be attending the Santos Tour Down Under next year in 2025 - the 25th anniversary of this race race," Cavendish announces in an Instagram post by the race organiser.

"I raced it many years ago. It wasn't that successful for me (in 2011, Cavenidish's best result was a 62nd place in a stage, ed.), but it's incredible to see this race grow and grow over the years. And to celebrate there from the start of the Women's race the 17th of January till the finish of the 26th of January. It's going to be an incredible festival."

The Santos Tour Down Under festival kicks off with three-day women's stage race on the 17th of January with the men's race starting two days after the ladies finish their race. Cavendish's role at the event is not explained but it's fair to assume he's likely to be guest at the starting ceremony and then several community events throughout the two weeks.