The nation's largest propane company steps in as title sponsor to revive legendary Manayunk Wall race in time for America's 250th anniversary
After a 10-year absence, the Philadelphia Cycling Classic will return to the streets in 2026, with AmeriGas Propane L.P. as title sponsor. The nation's largest retail propane distributor, a subsidiary of UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI), announced today that it will fuel the revival of the legendary race that once drew more than 100,000 spectators and international cycling stars to tackle the legendary Manayunk Wall.
The 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic, presented by AmeriGas® (a UGI company), marks both the return of world-class professional cycling to Philadelphia and a celebration of American resilience as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
"Just as AmeriGas invests in the communities where our employees live and work, we're also heavily investing in upgrading our service standards, enhancing our delivery systems, and ensuring that every customer interaction reflects our dedication to excellence," said Michael Sharp, President of AmeriGas Propane. "This race represents everything we stand for – being the best competitor, bringing people together, honoring our regional roots, and supporting the neighborhoods that have supported us for generations while we fuel America's future."
"The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is back, and it is with great thanks to the team at AmeriGas that we are able to celebrate that today," said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "This world-class event will again put Philadelphia on the global stage in 2026 and allow us to reestablish its legacy for years to come. To the people of Philadelphia and the region: this race belongs to you. Whether you're a cyclist, a neighbor, a business owner, or a fan, this event is for you, and we are grateful to the people of AmeriGas for making that possible."
"We knew that it was essential to identify the right partner for this effort – an organization that would help power the return of this incredible race and restore the beloved tradition that it's been for our city and region," said Eric Robbins of Race Street Partners, race owners and lead organizers. "What we've found in AmeriGas is an exceptional partner. As title sponsor, they are central to not only the resurgence of the race but also to the kind of meaningful economic impact and community engagement that it generates. Thank you, AmeriGas. We are so proud to be doing this work together with you."
The 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic, presented by AmeriGas, will take place on August 30, 2026. Race weekend activities, community programming and additional event details will be announced at www.PhiladelphiaCyclingClassic.com.
The original Philadelphia Cycling Classic, first held in 1985, quickly became one of the premier professional cycling events in North America. The race's challenging 14-mile circuit through Philadelphia's neighborhoods, culminating with the legendary 17% grade climb up the Manayunk Wall, attracted top international talent and created an electric atmosphere that energized local businesses and brought communities together along the route.
AmeriGas' commitment extends beyond the finish line. UGI Corporation has supported the Greater Philadelphia region, where it maintains significant operations, for more than 140 years. The sponsorship continues that legacy and aligns with the company's mission during this pivotal moment in American history.
Robert Flexon, President and CEO of UGI Corporation, added: "At UGI, we've been part of this region's story for nearly a century and a half. Supporting the return of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic as we approach America's 250th anniversary feels like the perfect way to celebrate both our shared heritage and our commitment to the communities we serve. Great traditions deserve great comebacks."
About AmeriGas Propane and UGI Corporation
AmeriGas Propane is the largest retail propane distributor in the United States, with more than 820 million gallons sold annually to over 1.1 million customers from approximately 1,360 locations as of September 30, 2024. AmeriGas Propane is a wholly owned subsidiary of UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI), a distributor and marketer of energy products and services in the U.S. and Europe. UGI offers safe, reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions to customers through its subsidiaries, which provide natural gas transmission and distribution, electric generation and distribution, midstream services, propane distribution, renewable natural gas generation, distribution and marketing, and energy marketing services.
Learn more about AmeriGas at amerigas.com and UGI Corporation at www.ugicorp.com.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250916759439/en/
Media Contact
Elspeth Huyett, Vault Communications
[email protected]