Tour de France changes final stage with Montmartre climb, sparking mixed reactions
- The final stage of this year's Tour de France will feature a climb up Montmartre, a notable shift from previous traditions.
- Riders will navigate the hill three times, introducing new tactical challenges and potential safety concerns.
- Though aimed at enhancing the spectacle, the changes have divided opinions among cyclists about the impact on race dynamics.
In July 2023, the Tour de France, a major cycling event held annually in France, will introduce a significant alteration to its final stage by incorporating the Montmartre climb in Paris. This modification marks a departure from the tradition of concluding the race with a celebratory sprint along the famed Champs-Élysées. Riders will tackle the Montmartre hill three times, culminating in an unprecedented finale that could impact the race's outcome. While some cycling officials believe this move will infuse excitement, top riders have expressed concerns that the climb may lead to unnecessary complications and heightened stress. Tour director Christian Prudhomme aims to recapture the spirit of the Paris Olympics, where the atmosphere on Montmartre was vibrant with large crowds supporting the cyclists. The new route includes sections beneath the iconic Sacré-Cœur basilica, which adds visual appeal but also raises logistical challenges, such as increased security measures. The inclusion of Montmartre has generated mixed feelings among the cyclists; while they appreciate the festive environment, many fear that it could undermine their performance and result in accidents on the narrow paths of Montmartre. As the Tour approaches, the risk of adverse weather conditions has also been a point of contention, as rain could complicate the final stage. In historical context, the final stages of the Tour de France have often been processional in nature, with leaders avoiding risks that could jeopardize their overall standings. Yet, this year’s changes might provoke more aggressive tactics and positioning conflicts among the competitors, reminiscent of the last decisive ending in 1989 when Greg LeMond won by just eight seconds. The race will begin in Lille, France, on July 5, with the women’s Tour de France racing starting on July 26. As preparations unfold, it remains to be seen how the riders will adapt to such changes and whether the Montmartre ascent will indeed change the narrative of the enduring Tour de France, ultimately defining a new character for the race's conclusion in the heart of Paris.