Key sports betting and iGaming software supplier Altenar has signed a three-year deal to become the title sponsor of the Gran Fondo Isle of Man cycling challenge.
This strategic partnership marks a major commitment by Altenar to support cycling on the Isle of Man, a place with a deep-rooted cycling heritage. The island is famously the birthplace of Mark Cavendish, the most successful Tour de France stage winner of all time, who himself has taken part in the Gran Fondo in both 2019 and 2022.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Manx countryside, over two action-packed days on July 19-20th, 2025, more than 1,000 riders from around the world will compete across four challenges: the Gran Fondo (85 miles), the Medio Fondo (39 miles), the Piccolo Fondo (20 miles), and the family-friendly Minisculo Fondo, held in the heart of Ramsey’s Mooragh Park which doubles as the race village.
Since its inception, Gran Fondo Isle of Man has attracted over 8,000 riders from as far afield as Japan, Australia, South Africa and the USA. It has earned major accolades -named one of Cycling Weekly’s “Top Ten Must-Do” events for three consecutive years- and been a qualifying round of the prestigious UCI Gran Fondo World Series from 2021-2024.
Now, 2025 will mark the final Gran Fondo Isle of Man in the current format, with organizers set to announce exciting plans for their future events shortly, alongside new partner Altenar.
This agreement reaffirms Altenar’s passion for supporting community sports in the Isle of Man and builds on its successful sponsorship of the Isle of Man Marathon and Half Marathon, which will take place in August 2025.
John Quaye, Chief Financial Officer at Altenar, indicated: “The Isle of Man has cycling woven into its identity, and Altenar is proud to be part of a new chapter for this incredible event. With our headquarters at Cycle 360 House, and our existing sponsorship of the Isle of Man Marathon and Half Marathon, this sponsorship is a natural fit, uniting endurance and community, highlighting the beauty of the Isle of Man and showing why it has Unesco World Biosphere status.”
Paul Phillips, Director at Gran Fondo Isle of Man, said: “Having Altenar on board as our title sponsor is a huge vote of confidence in the event’s direction and our long-term vision. We’re incredibly excited about what we can build together, not just for 2025, but for the evolution of mass participation cycling for all ages and abilities within the context of our own initiative. Our event is well established both within the local community and with international cyclists. We will continue to adapt to deliver memorable and enjoyable cycling experiences that capitalize on the Island’s rich environment and terrain.”