1. To ask the Scottish Government what discussions have taken place with Forestry and Land Scotland regarding the upcoming 2023 UCI cycling world championships. (S6O-02292)

We are all delighted that Scotland is hosting that groundbreaking sporting event this summer. For one country to host all the UCI cycling world championships is unique, and 2023 Cycling World Championships Ltd is working with Forestry and Land Scotland on preparations to host various competitions and disciplines. The Scottish Government sits alongside Forestry and Land Scotland on groups such as the cycling world championships policy advisory group and the cycling world championships marketing and communications group to help to progress those preparations.

Although Glasgow will be the host city and it will undoubtedly rise to the occasion of giving competitors and spectators a warm welcome, all of Scotland will play its part in marking the occasion, with key events such as mountain biking being held at Glentress and Fort William, as well as in Glasgow. What role will our national forests play in supporting the historic and unique event?

It is important to highlight that Glasgow, given its track record and facilities, will be at the heart of activity, but our national forests will provide a spectacular backdrop for key disciplines. That includes the world mountain bike cross-country, which will be held at the Glentress centre, and the mountain bike downhill world cup, which will be at Fort William.

A key aim of the 2023 UCI cycling world championships is for the event to demonstrate our nation’s natural beauty as well as a warm welcome. We can really look forward to seeing Perthshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Fife and Stirling featuring and showcasing all that Scotland has to offer to an unrivalled world audience. Many events, such as the road races and time trials, will be free to view. I hope that that will help to introduce cycling and cycling events to a wider audience and encourage people from throughout the country to go along and view what will be spectacular events.