In a strategic move that underscores its commitment to community sports and endurance culture, Altenar, a prominent global provider of sports betting and iGaming solutions, has stepped up as the title sponsor of the prestigious Gran Fondo Isle of Man. This three-year partnership solidifies Altenar’s growing presence in the Isle of Man’s sporting landscape and breathes new life into one of cycling’s most visually spectacular and culturally significant mass participation events. Set against the lush, windswept backdrop of the Manx countryside, the 2025 edition of the Gran Fondo promises a historic send-off to the event’s current format, while laying the groundwork for an exciting future powered by Altenar’s support.

Altenar Aligns with Isle of Man’s Storied Cycling Heritage

The Isle of Man holds a legendary place in the world of cycling, not least as the birthplace of Mark Cavendish, the most successful Tour de France stage winner in history.

Cavendish himself has graced the Gran Fondo Isle of Man twice—in 2019 and again in 2022—further boosting the event's status as a global draw. By partnering with this iconic race, Altenar not only leverages the island’s deep-rooted passion for cycling but also affirms its own ethos of resilience, stamina, and community spirit.

This partnership represents a natural fit. Altenar's headquarters are based at Cycle 360 House, placing the company at the symbolic and logistical heart of Isle of Man’s cycling movement.

Gran Fondo 2025: The Final Chapter in Its Current Format

Scheduled for July 19-20, 2025, the event will feature four races: the flagship 85-mile Gran Fondo, the 39-mile Medio Fondo, the 20-mile Piccolo Fondo, and the family-oriented Minisculo Fondo.

Over 1,000 cyclists from across the globe are expected to descend upon the Isle of Man, joining the more than 8,000 riders who have participated since the event’s inception. Attendees will traverse the island’s UNESCO-designated Biosphere, a fitting stage for a race that fuses sport and scenery.

The 2025 edition will also mark the final year of the Gran Fondo in its current format, with organisers teasing a revamped future. Altenar will be a key stakeholder in shaping the event’s next evolution.

Global Recognition and Enduring Appeal

Gran Fondo Isle of Man has not only earned a devoted local following, but has also been recognized internationally, with riders coming from Japan, Australia, South Africa, and the United States.

The race was named one of Cycling Weekly’s “Top Ten Must-Do” events for three consecutive years and has served as a UCI Gran Fondo World Series qualifying round from 2021 through 2024. These accolades highlight the event's importance in the global amateur cycling calendar.

Through Altenar’s support, the organisers hope to maintain and even elevate this standing while introducing new layers of innovation and accessibility.

Corporate Citizenship Meets Community Spirit

Altenar has previously backed the Isle of Man Marathon and Half Marathon, showcasing its dedication to grassroots sporting events and community well-being.

This newest sponsorship further cements Altenar’s role as a corporate citizen that invests in local culture and health. John Quaye, Altenar’s Chief Financial Officer, emphasized the emotional and strategic alignment: “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.”

By reinforcing its commitment to community-oriented sports, Altenar is cultivating not just brand equity but also meaningful local impact.

Building the Future of Inclusive Cycling Events

Organisers are keen to use this partnership as a launchpad for broader ambitions—creating an inclusive model of mass participation cycling for all age groups and skill levels.

Paul Phillips, Director of Gran Fondo Isle of Man, sees Altenar’s support as transformative: “Having Altenar on board as our title sponsor is a huge vote of confidence in the event’s direction and our long-term vision.”

With Altenar’s backing, the Gran Fondo can further bridge the gap between elite sport and recreational cycling, providing accessible and memorable experiences for families, amateurs, and pros alike.

Bottomline: A Synergy of Endurance, Environment, and Enterprise

The Altenar–Gran Fondo partnership is not merely a branding exercise. It’s a confluence of shared values: resilience, community, and an appreciation for the natural world. By underwriting the final edition of the Gran Fondo in its current format—and helping to reimagine its future—Altenar is investing in something far greater than visibility: it is helping to preserve and evolve one of the Isle of Man’s most cherished sporting traditions.

In a time where authentic engagement often trumps mere sponsorship, this union stands as a blueprint for how tech-forward companies can genuinely enhance grassroots sporting ecosystems while amplifying their own story.