A Beginner's Guide to the Tour de France 2024
Welcome to the world of the Tour de France, the most prestigious and gruelling cycling race in the world. If you're new to the Tour or cycling in general, you've picked the perfect time to start following. The 2024 edition of the Tour de France kicks off today, 29th June in Florence, Italy, and promises excitement, drama, and spectacular athletic feats over the next three weeks. Here's an introduction to help you understand and enjoy this grand event.
What is the Tour de France?
The Tour de France is an annual multiple stage bicycle race primarily held in France, occasionally passing through nearby countries. It consists of 21 day-long stages over 23 days, covering approximately 3,500 kilometres (2,200 miles). The race typically includes flat stages, mountain stages, and time trials, challenging riders in various aspects of cycling.
Key Terms to Know
Peloton: The main group of riders. Staying in the peloton helps riders conserve energy by reducing wind resistance.
GC (General Classification): The overall competition in the Tour de France. The rider with the lowest cumulative time across all stages wears the coveted yellow jersey.
Yellow Jersey (Maillot Jaune): Worn by the rider leading the General Classification. It's the most prestigious jersey in cycling.
Green Jersey (Maillot Vert): Awarded to the leader of the points classification, often a sprinter who performs well in flat stages.
Polka Dot Jersey (Maillot à Pois Rouges): Worn by the best climber, leading the King of the Mountains classification.
White Jersey (Maillot Blanc): Awarded to the best young rider (under 26) in the General Classification.
Domestique: A team rider who supports the leader by pacing them, fetching water, and protecting them from the wind.
The Teams and Riders
Each of the 22 teams in the Tour de France consists of eight riders. Teams work together to support their leader, aiming for stage wins, jersey classifications, or overall victory. Here are a few key riders and teams to watch:
Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates): A two-time Tour winner, known for his climbing and time-trial prowess.
Jonas Vingegaard (Team Visma-Lease a bike): The defending champion, a formidable climber with a strong team.
Primož Roglič (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe): A consistent contender and Grand Tour winner.
Egan Bernal (INEOS Grenadiers): The 2019 Tour winner, looking to make a comeback after injuries.
Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step): A young, aggressive rider with a strong future.
The Stages: Variety and Challenge
The Tour de France features different types of stages:
Flat Stages: Typically ending in a mass sprint, these stages are suited to sprinters who can race at high speeds.
Mountain Stages: Featuring steep climbs and high altitudes, these stages are where climbers and GC contenders shine.
Time Trials: Individual races against the clock, testing riders' speed and endurance over a set distance.
Hilly Stages: These stages have a mix of climbs and flat sections, often leading to exciting breakaways and tactical racing.
Must-Watch Stages of 2024
Stage 4: Pinerolo > Valloire
This is the first major high-mountain challenge, including the legendary ascent of Col du Galibier, making it a pivotal battleground.
Stage winner: Tadej Pogacar
Stage 9: Troyes > Troyes
A gravel stage around Troyes which could pose unpredictable challenges affecting the riders.
Stage winner: Anthony Turgis
Stage 15: Loudenvielle > Plateau de Beille
This stage is in the Pyrenees, featuring the highest elevation gain of the race at over 5,000 metres. A gruelling challenge.
Stage winner: Tadej Pogacar
Stage 19: Embrun > Isola 2000
Just 145 kilometres long, climbs over 4,500 metres across three peaks, including the Tour's highest point at 2,802 m on the Cime de la Bonette.
Stage winner: Tadej Pogacar
Stage 20: Nice > Col de la Couillole
133 km featuring challenging terrain with significant vertical gain p/km, making it the toughest stage of the race. The route includes climbs and descents before concluding on the Col de la Couillole, promising exciting action.
Stage winner: Tadej Pogacar
Stage 21: Monaco > Nice
For the first time since 1989, the Tour de France will end with a time trial, where riders race individually against the clock. Instead of Paris, they’ll begin in Monaco and end on the riviera in Nice.
Stage winner: Tadej Pogacar
How to Watch
You can catch the Tour de France on various sports networks, often with live coverage and highlights. Many channels provide expert commentary, making it easier to understand the tactics and drama unfolding on the road. Online streaming services and apps also offer convenient ways to watch the race live or catch up on the action. Often city cycling cafes show the race on TV where you can discuss tactics and drool over expensive bikes with fellow cyclists and enjoy the atmosphere.
If you're planning to travel to France to watch the Tour de France in person, bringing your own bicycle is a fantastic way to explore the stunning routes and experience the race atmosphere firsthand. We recommend a bicycle cover for travel and transport and if you’re staying in a hotel, you’ll be able to take the bike in the room with you to protect the floors.
Conclusion
The Tour de France is more than just a race; it's a celebration of endurance, strategy, and the sheer beauty of cycling. Whether you're rooting for a specific rider, team, or just enjoying the spectacle, the Tour offers something for every sports fan. Grab your favourite snacks, find a good spot, and get ready to experience the thrill of the Tour de France 2024!
