Ned Boulting Launches New Cycling Podcast, "For The Love Of Cycling," Expanding Grand Tour Coverage

Cycling's New Voice: Connecting Fans with Every Pedal Stroke

The Launch of a New Era in Cycling Commentary

Ned Boulting, a respected personality in the world of cycling broadcasting, recently introduced his latest audio project, "For The Love Of Cycling." This new podcast is designed to offer comprehensive daily insights into major professional cycling competitions, including the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France, beginning this Friday. It represents a forward-thinking approach to sports commentary, aiming to fill the void created by changing broadcast landscapes.

Synergy with an Established Fan Favorite

Alongside this fresh endeavor, Boulting confirmed the continuation of his highly regarded "Never Strays Far" podcast. Both series will be available through a single integrated feed, a strategic move facilitated by Crowd Network. This independent podcast production company has a proven track record of success with similar sports-focused audio content, such as "For The Love Of Rugby" and "For The Love Of Cricket," underscoring their expertise in engaging sports communities.

A Team of Expert Voices and Enhanced Reach

The new podcast will feature the familiar and beloved co-hosts from "Never Strays Far," including Lizzie Deignan, Pete Kennaugh, and David Millar. This collaboration ensures a consistent and expert perspective for listeners. Furthermore, "For The Love Of Cycling" will expand its presence to YouTube, offering a multi-platform experience that caters to diverse audience preferences. Boulting confirmed that existing "Never Strays Far" episodes will also be accessible via this consolidated channel, maintaining continuity for dedicated fans.

Addressing the Evolving Landscape of Sports Broadcasting

Boulting emphasized that this year marks a pivotal moment for professional cycling, particularly concerning how fans access and interact with the sport. He noted the commitment to providing accessible opportunities for the cycling fanbase to follow all upcoming Grand Tours. Building on the strong foundation of "Never Strays Far" and its devoted audience, "For The Love Of Cycling" is poised to elevate the current format into a richer, multi-channel experience, adapting to the shifting dynamics of sports media consumption.

Unprecedented Access and Immersive Storytelling

The podcast pledges daily episodes throughout the Giro d'Italia, with the inaugural broadcast already available. Similar extensive coverage is planned for the Tour de France and subsequently the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. Boulting will be reporting directly from the events in Italy and France, offering an authentic perspective. Beyond detailed race analysis, the project will incorporate cultural narratives and long-form stage reactions across its podcast and YouTube channels. Additionally, fans can expect daily social media updates, capturing the vibrant atmosphere and real-time reactions from each race, ensuring an immersive and dynamic fan experience.

Navigating Changes in UK Cycling Coverage

The launch of "For The Love Of Cycling" comes in the wake of the late 2024 announcement that ITV would not renew its broadcasting rights for the Tour de France. This decision signaled the end of an era for free-to-air live coverage of the event on UK television. Consequently, this season marks the first in many years without live Tour de France broadcasts accessible without a subscription. In light of these changes, the Giro d'Italia is currently available live exclusively on TNT Sports and HBO Max in the UK and Ireland, with nightly highlights broadcast on DMAX, highlighting the growing importance of alternative platforms like Boulting's podcast.

A Collaborative Vision for the Future of Cycling Media

Mike Carr, CEO of Crowd Network, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, recognizing Boulting as a leading voice in road cycling and Grand Tours. He stressed the privilege of collaborating with Boulting to offer both new and established fans a dedicated space for engaging content. Carr highlighted the transformative shifts in sports consumption in recent years, expressing pride in leading the creation of diverse cycling content—both short and long-form—across various social channels. This approach aims to ensure that everyone can actively participate in and enjoy the year's two most significant cycling tours.