In June 2025, leukaemia survivor, former Crystal Palace and England international footballer Geoff Thomas will once again ride in the Tour de France, marking a monumental milestone—20 years since he first completed the iconic 21 stages. This will be Geoff’s seventh Tour and, as ever, he will be riding for a cause close to his heart. Geoff’s ambition is to ride all 21 stages, and is training hard to overcome injuries which have put him behind schedule. As a member of the Tour 21 team and longs standing Patron of the charity, Geoff will be raising vital funds for Cure Leukaemia, a charity dedicated to accelerating blood cancer treatment and saving lives.
Geoff’s personal journey with leukaemia is a remarkable one. In 2003, just a year after retiring from professional football, he was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia (a form of blood cancer) and was given just three months to live. However, after receiving a stem cell transplant from his sister Kay and undergoing treatment from Professor Charlie Craddock CBE, co-founder of Cure Leukaemia, Geoff entered remission in January 2005. This life-saving treatment has motivated him to give back, dedicating himself to raising awareness and funds for blood cancer patients across the globe.
Over the years, the Tour 21 event has raised millions supporting the Trials Acceleration Programme funded by Cure Leukaemia. This programme is vital in funding clinical trials that can change the lives of those fighting blood cancer.
Reflecting on his decision to return to the Tour, Geoff said: “I’ve got to come back for one more Tour to celebrate 20 years since I first rode The Tour de France. It’s an incredibly special event for me, not only because of the challenge it presents, but because of the cause it supports. Every year we ride, we make a real difference, and I am proud to be a part of it again in 2025 just under 12 weeks!.”
In preparation for this immense challenge, Geoff has received treatment from Mark Gillet, Chief Medical Officer to the Premier League, including an Arthrosamid® injection to support his recovery. On Geoff’s announcement, Mark added “To be supporting Geoff to achieve this incredible feat is a privilege and I know first hand how tough the demands of the Tour 21 are, having rode with the team in 2022. Despite the physical demands, Geoff has been diligently putting in the miles to ensure he is ready for the formidable stages ahead.
Geoff’s role on the Tour 21 team will be more than just a rider—he will also offer his unmatched experience to amateur riders taking on the Tour. Known for his generosity in sharing his knowledge, he will be cycling alongside participants on several stages, providing encouragement and advice as they tackle the challenging route.
One of the most exciting elements of Geoff’s return to the Tour will be his participation in Stage 16, where he will face the legendary Mont Ventoux. Known as one of the most gruelling climbs in professional cycling, Mont Ventoux will be a test of endurance, but it’s one that Geoff is prepared to meet head-on.
Riders will have the opportunity to join Geoff for a four-stage package, taking on stages 16-19, including some of the most iconic climbs in the Tour de France from
Geoff is calling on riders from across the globe to join him in this incredible challenge. “I invite cyclists from all over the world to join me on this unforgettable ride. By committing to raise £10,000 each, we can help the Tour 21 team reach our ambitious £1 million fundraising target. Together, we can make a real difference in the fight against blood cancer,” he said.
For those looking to be a part of this momentous event, joining the Tour 21 team for the 4-stage package which includes
- 5 nights’ accommodation
- All transport during trip
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner throughout
- Santini Official Tour 21 Kit
- On ride food and nutrition
- Sports Therapist support
- Mechanical support
- Guided Route with road closures
To secure your place, register at https://www.thetour21.co.uk
As Geoff gears up for his seventh Tour de France in 2025, it’s clear that his journey—from footballer to cancer survivor to cycling advocate—has been nothing short of extraordinary. He will once again prove that determination, perseverance, and the power of community can overcome even the greatest challenges.
