The Tour de France is starting, but you feel left behind? Can't keep up with your friends? Don't worry, we've got you covered.
While we can't make you an expert in the blink of an eye, we can give you a helping hand.
So here are the basics of Tour de France.
The Tour de France in 5 stages:
step 1
The basics
The Tour de France is without doubt the world's most prestigious cycling race. Spread over three weeks, it consists of 21 intense stages. To win this competition, the objective is simple: finish all the stages in the shortest time.
The race brings together 22 teams, each made up of 8 cyclists with specific, strategic roles.
step 2
The different stages
Each stage of the Tour de France is a real adventure, crossing mountains, plains and thrilling descents.
. The high mountain stages, marked by the presence of at least two cols, are the most physically and mentally demanding, and often decisive for the overall classification. During these days, riders laboriously climb kilometers of near-vertical climbs, often dispersed in small groups.
. The time trials, which are also crucial, are distinguished by the riders' individual starts. Each participant is timed, and the fastest time wins the race.
. Flat and hilly stages are distinguished by their route: a mainly flat course is a flat stage, while a course with a few difficulties, such as cobbles, is called a hilly stage.
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step 3
The different jerseys
. The yellow jersey is the symbol of the Tour de France. It is worn by the rider leading the overall classification. To wear this coveted jersey, you have to be the best performer on all the stages. It's every rider's dream to wear this emblematic jersey.
. The Green Jersey is worn by the rider leading the points classification. Points are awarded at the finish of each stage and at intermediate sprints. This is why the Green Jersey is generally awarded to the best sprinter.
. The polka-dot jersey is worn by the rider leading the best climber classification. The "mountain points" are awarded on the summits of the passes and vary according to the category of the pass.
. The white jersey is worn by the leader of the best young rider classification (maximum age 25).
step 4
2023 Tour recap: a duel at the summit
The year 2023 marked a memorable edition of the Tour de France, filled with twists and turns, dazzling performances and strong emotions. Here's the story of this incredible edition, which held millions of fans around the world spellbound.
The start
The Tour de France 2023 kicked off in the picturesque city of Bilbao, Spain. The streets were lined with spectators, ready to cheer on the 176 riders. From the very first pedal strokes, the tension was palpable. The favourites for the overall classification were already emerging, but no one could have foreseen the surprises this edition would offer.
The First Steps : Sprinters dominate
The first stages were dominated by sprinters. Jasper Philipsen shone with several victories, showing exceptional form and perfect mastery of mass sprints.
Les Étapes de Montagne: Climbers in Action
The first forays into the mountains offered intense battles. The climbs up to legendary passes like the Col du Tourmalet were the scene of fierce battles. Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogačar, the two favorites, fought memorable duels, each trying to gain an advantage over the other.
number 5
Time trials: decisive for the overall ranking
The time trials were crucial to the overall classification. Jonas Vingegaard showed his superiority in this exercise, opening up significant gaps on his rivals. His outstanding performance in the individual time trial was a key moment in this edition.
The Alps : Epic battles
The Alpine stages were particularly spectacular. Mont Blanc and Alpe d'Huez saw the favorites battle it out on grueling climbs. It was in these mountains that Jonas Vingegaard consolidated his lead in the overall classification, showing impressive form and unfailing determination.
L'Arrivée sur les Champs-Élysées : The Triumph of the Champion
The Tour de France 2023 ended on a high note on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The final stage, the traditional parade of champions, was won by Jordi Meeus. Jonas Vingegaard was crowned winner of the Tour de France for the second time running, after a remarkable performance throughout the three-week race.
Want to know even more?
DOCU-SERIE
Le Tour de France by Netflix
"Tour de France, au cœur du peloton" takes you inside the Tour de France, from the 2022 edition onwards, with a mix of race footage, archive footage and interviews with riders and team managers.
The series delves into the many issues at stake in the races, and brings together the testimonies of those involved in the Tour, sometimes at close quarters with the athletes.
video youtube
"Understanding the Tour de France
The Tour de France's Youtube channel has set itself the goal of making you more knowledgeable about the Tour de France, in an educational and affordable video.
Take your time and immerse yourself in this fascinating world.
Watch the video: HERE
Now you've got the basics to enjoy the Tour de France like a true connoisseur. Whether you're a cycling novice or enthusiast, the Tour de France has no secrets for you!