Cycling fans in France and abroad look forward to the Tour de France every year for its incredible twists and turns and diverse landscapes. It's back this July, with a Spanish start from Bilbao to the traditional Champs-Elysées, and it's sure to be full of surprises! But do you know why this race is so famous? Discover its origins and history, from 1903 to the present day!
Yes, the Tour de France is over 100 years old! Its creation dates back to the end of the 19th century, set up by the French newspaper "L'Auto", formerly known as"Le Vélo", in 1903 by new director Henri Desgrange, a former racing cyclist. To boost the paper's sales, he wanted to organize a major cycling event that would attract public interest. So, before being a sporting competition, the Grande Boucle was a marketing strategy!
The Tour de France began on July 1, but at the time comprised just six stages, covering 2428 kilometers, in a loop whose finish and start were in the Île-de-France region, passing through France's biggest cities, Marseille, Bordeaux and Nantes. That's why it's still known as the Grande Boucle! It was an instant hit with the public, despite conditions that were far more difficult for the riders than they are today. Broadcast on television in 190 countries, the Tour has become the 3rd most-watched sporting event in the world, proof of the public's interest!
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