Historically the leader of this competition has worn a yellow jersey, but, from the 2011 edition due to sponsorship, it became known as the IG Markets Gold Jersey.

[1] In 2017, it became a green jersey in light of sponsorship from Ovo Energy.

Like most cycling events the winner is determined by who has the fastest time over the entirety of the race.

Time bonuses can be won by winning a stage, or reaching an intermediate sprint or the top of a climb first.

The rider who has completed the course in the smallest time will win the Tour of Britain.