It's incredibly hot in France. The Tour de France has been struggling with
extreme weather conditions since the start in Barcelona, and even now that it has crossed the border. The organizers were forced to take emergency measures during the third stage, but for the coming days, the
UCI has decided to ease the conditions somewhat for the riders.
It was already sweltering in Barcelona. The first two days saw temperatures well over thirty degrees, before it climbed to forty degrees. The third stage was once again extremely hot, and quite a few riders
struggled with the heat. Nature suffered as well: there were forest fires, prompting the ASO to ultimately decide not to allow spectators along the final forty kilometers.
Judging by the crowds lining the road, that plan had failed. Temperatures are once again expected to reach nearly forty degrees for the fourth stage. Between
Carcassonne and Foix, it’s expected to be an extremely grueling day, partly because the course is challenging. That’s why the UCI has decided to take action—and not just for the fourth stage.
Read more below the photo!
'Supply bags' at water zones
This was announced in a
press release. “The International Cycling Union, in consultation with the chair of the supervisory committee—which is responsible for the sporting management of the event— and the organizer, who is responsible for its organization, has decided to relax the rules regarding the provision of refreshments to the riders in light of the extreme heat forecast for the upcoming stages of the Tour de France.”
"In this regard, it has been decided to exceptionally allow the use of supply bags in zones that were initially intended solely for the distribution of water bottles ('water bottle zones') within the specified climbs. This measure is intended to facilitate the simultaneous distribution of multiple water bottles to each rider, thereby ensuring optimal hydration under the expected weather conditions."
More water bottles, more hydration, fewer problems—that’s the UCI’s reasoning. It’s a test, but it’s quite possible that similar measures will be taken later in the Tour. “This measure is being introduced on a trial basis and will be evaluated based on weather conditions, its effectiveness, and its impact on the smooth running of the event.”