Škoda Design crafts iconic crystal trophies as Czech carmaker celebrates 130 years and reaffirms commitment to global cycling events
Mladá Boleslav, 28 July 2025 – The 112th edition of the Tour de France concluded in grand style on the Champs-Élysées this past weekend, and Škoda Auto once again played a central role in the world’s most prestigious cycling race. As the official main partner for the 22nd consecutive year, Škoda underscored its deep-rooted ties to the sport with a powerful blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability.
Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer presented the green crystal trophy to points classification winner, Italian sprinter Jonathan Milan – a fitting highlight during a year in which Škoda celebrates its 130th anniversary. The Czech marque’s journey began in 1895 with the manufacture of bicycles, making its ongoing support for elite cycling all the more meaningful.
“The Tour de France is a true showcase of breathtaking athletic achievement,” said Zellmer. “Škoda Auto is proud to have been the official main partner for over two decades. As we celebrate 130 years, it is especially symbolic to support the Tour with our electrified fleet, helping ensure seamless race logistics while honouring our origins as a bicycle manufacturer.”
Electrified Mobility at the Heart of the Race
Throughout the 2025 edition, Škoda Auto provided a fleet of nearly 220 electrified vehicles to race organisers, including fully electric and plug-in hybrid models. Among them were the flagship Škoda Enyaq and the Superb iV, which served as the renowned Red Cars – mobile command centres from which Race Director Christian Prudhomme oversaw the event.
Škoda’s commitment to sustainable mobility in professional cycling dates back to 2019, when electrified models first joined the race. The Enyaq made its Red Car debut in 2020 and has remained a staple of the Tour ever since.
Celebrating 130 Years with Crystal Artistry
In a nod to its heritage, Škoda Design crafted this year’s trophies using traditional Czech crystal, each piece marked with a special ‘130 years’ logo. The elegant green crystal awarded to the points classification leader mirrored both the colour of the green jersey and Škoda’s brand identity. Other trophies were presented to overall winner Tadej Pogačar, the best young rider, and the King of the Mountains.
Showcasing Innovation and Inclusion
Beyond the core race fleet, Škoda showcased two distinctive concept vehicles during the Tour. The Elroq Respectline, wrapped in a rainbow livery, promoted the brand’s values of respect, diversity and inclusion. Meanwhile, the Škoda L&K 130 – the tenth Student Car project – served as a bicycle race support vehicle. Designed and built by students from the Škoda Auto Vocational School, it paid tribute to the brand’s roots in cycling.
Fans lining the route were treated to more than just world-class racing. Škoda’s Coffee Car mobile café and merchandise caravan added to the festive atmosphere, while interactive experiences helped fans feel part of the action.
VIP Experiences for Cycling Fans
Škoda’s passion for cycling extends beyond the pros. Through its platform WeLoveCycling.com, the brand ran competitions offering once-in-a-lifetime prizes. Seven lucky winners and their guests enjoyed a VIP experience in Škoda vehicles during the final stage and took part in a 60 km celebratory ride through Paris alongside former professional cyclists. Other prizes included high-end bikes and authentic green jerseys.
Supporting the Future of Cycling – Men’s and Women’s Races Alike
Škoda’s commitment to the sport isn’t limited to the men’s Tour. The carmaker has also supported the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift since its revival in 2022 and remains the main partner for the fourth consecutive year. In total, Škoda supports 17 major cycling events annually, including La Vuelta, Paris–Roubaix, Paris–Nice, and Liège–Bastogne–Liège.
Further cementing its presence in the cycling world, Škoda has expanded its partnership with the International Cycling Union (UCI). The brand will serve as the official partner for both the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Switzerland this August and the UCI Gravel World Championships in the Netherlands this October – reinforcing its status as a global ally to professional and amateur cyclists alike.
As the peloton of 2025 rides into history, Škoda Auto remains firmly in the saddle – a brand that blends its past and future with enduring dedication to the world of cycling.
