Tour de France goes soft this year.
The Tour de France 2024 has seen a notable decrease in serious crashes, with various new safety measures and greater awareness within the peloton contributing to a smoother ride halfway through the race.
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Strategic changes enhance rider safety
The implementation of tripled cordons along the route has significantly helped to control crowd interactions, especially in mountainous stages, making it safer for riders. These barriers are less intrusive than full barriers and have been particularly effective, as noted by race director Christian Prudhomme.
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Fewer vehicles, fewer problems
Reducing the number of motorcycles and other vehicles in close proximity to the riders has also contributed to the safer environment. The decision was influenced by previous incidents, including one where a motorcycle interfered with a critical attack during last year’s race.
Extended three-kilometer rule eases race finishes
In a significant reform tested this year, the UCI has extended the three-kilometer rule to four or five kilometers on select stages. This rule credits all riders in a group with the same finish time once they pass under the three-kilometer banner, reducing the need for frantic sprinting to the finish line and lessening crash risks.
Sympathy from one champ to another 😩
Tour de France leader Tadej Pogačar's reaction to Primož Roglič losing 2:27 following a late crash on Stage 12.
📸 Getty Images
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🇫🇷 #TDF2024 pic.twitter.com/jM4Bblz5Op— Velon CC (@VelonCC) July 11, 2024
Carefully designed sprint finishes
The route for sprint finishes has been meticulously planned to avoid narrow roads and sharp turns, providing wide, straight paths that reduce the risk of high-speed collisions. This careful planning has been essential in keeping the races incident-free.
Urban adjustments to minimize hazards
Adjustments in urban settings, where most crashes tend to occur due to narrow roads and obstacles like roundabouts, have been a focus. In some cases, temporary removal or modification of road furniture has been necessary to ensure a clear path for the peloton.
A more conscious peloton
Riders themselves are taking fewer risks, showing greater respect for each other’s safety. This change in behavior is partly due to increased awareness of the dangers, highlighted by recent tragic incidents in other cycling events.
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This article explores how the Tour de France 2024 has seen a reduction in crashes due to new safety measures, better race planning, and a shift in peloton behavior. The collective efforts of organizers, local authorities, and the cyclists themselves have made this year’s race notably safer, setting a new standard for future tours.
