Tour de France organizers decided to “neutralize” the race on its final stage on Sunday, July 27, because of fears riders would be at risk on the rain-slicked cobbles of Montmartre. The decision to freeze the times with about 50 kilometers left to go takes away the competitive element of the final stage.
The route takes in three circuits around the Sacré-Cœur basilica for the first time this year after organizers introduced the change following the success of the road races at last year’s Paris Olympics, which were attended by huge crowds.
But as tens of thousands of people gathered at the tourist hotspot this year to watch the stage, light rain began to fall around 90 minutes before the riders were due to arrive and organizers decided to “neutralize” the times. Organizers hoped to introduce an element of risk by including the three circuits around the tight bends and cobbled streets of Montmartre.
“Due to slippery roads on shady spots in Montmartre, it has been decided, in accordance with the commissaries of the International Cycling Union (UCI) and representatives of teams and riders, to stop the time at the 4th passage on the finish line – before the three laps featuring the Cote de la Butte Montmartre,” organizers said.
As a result, the overall standings will remain unchanged, meaning Tadej Pogacar remains in the lead. However, the Slovenian will still need to cross the finish line on the Champs-Elysées Avenue to be declared winner of the race.
