Tour de France

The Tour de France is an annual men's multiple-stage bicycle race primarily held in France, with occasional passages through neighboring countries. Established in 1903, it is the oldest of the three Grand Tours, which also include the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a España, and is considered the most prestigious. The race lasts for 23 days, consisting of 21 day-long stages that cover approximately 3,500 kilometers in total.

The Tour de France is divided into several stages, each presenting unique challenges and scenic views. Flat stages, often passing through picturesque French countryside and towns, are typically favored by sprinters who can reach high speeds to win these segments. In contrast, mountain stages take riders up steep and high mountains like the Alps and the Pyrenees, testing their endurance and strength. Coastal sprints, where riders race along France's beautiful coastlines, add excitement and drama to the race as riders try to out-sprint each other to the finish line.

The race features four main classifications: the general classification, the points classification, the mountains classification, and the young rider classification. The general classification, represented by the iconic yellow jersey, is the oldest and most prestigious competition, with the rider having the lowest cumulative time being the leader of the race. The points classification, represented by a green jersey, rewards sprinters for their efforts throughout the race. The mountains classification, represented by a polka dot jersey, acknowledges the achievements of climbers in the race's mountain stages. Lastly, the young rider classification, represented by a white jersey, highlights the performance of riders under the age of 26 with general classification aspirations.

The Tour de France has a rich history, marked by memorable races, record-breaking performances, and controversies. Over the years, the race has witnessed incredible triumphs and heartbreaking setbacks, showcasing the determination and resilience of the riders. Despite the challenges and controversies, the Tour de France remains a beloved cultural event in Europe, captivating the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.