Sponsor IWC jumps off the Tortour
After eleven years, Schaffhausen watchmaker IWC is stepping down as sponsor of the Tortour cycling race.
"Next August will be the last time IWC Schaffhausen will sponsor the Tortour," a spokeswoman for the Richemont subsidiary tells the Handelszeitung. "We are working on a project with a stronger focus on promoting young Swiss cyclists and a stronger international appeal." The Tortour is a race of superlatives. From the start not far from the Rhine Falls, it goes once around Switzerland. The route is 1000 kilometers long. The riders overcome almost 14,500 meters of altitude. They conquer five Alpine passes: Albula, Flüela, Oberalp, Gotthard and Nufenen.
The Tortour is considered the favorite child of former IWC boss Georges Kern. The man in his mid-fifties took part seven times. In the meantime, the manager and bike enthusiast has moved on. He now runs the Breitling watch brand.
