The Tour de France, renowned as the pinnacle of cycling events, commenced its 111th edition in Italy this past weekend, but its traditional finale on Paris' Champs-Élysées will be displaced for the first time since 1905 due to the upcoming Olympics.
Citing security and logistical considerations linked to the Summer Games, this year's race will culminate in Nice on July 21, just five days before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. Spanning 2,173 miles over 21 days, the Tour's departure from Italy on June 29 marks another historic departure.
In a groundbreaking achievement, Eritrea's Biniam Girmay made history by becoming the first Black cyclist to clinch a Tour de France stage win, triumphing in the 144-mile third leg from Piacenza to Turin on Monday.
While the Tour de France garners a global audience in the tens of millions annually, American interest in professional cycling has waned since the fallout involving Lance Armstrong. However, this year's series of firsts and compelling narratives may reignite enthusiasm among U.S. viewers.
According to NBC News, American viewership could see a resurgence, partly attributed to the popularity of "Unchained," a new Netflix series from the creators of the hit "Drive to Survive" docuseries focusing on Formula 1 racing. "'Unchained' delves deep into cycling's fiercest rivalries, capturing the raw intensity, sacrifices, and relentless drive required to conquer the Tour de France. Expect thrilling crashes, emotional highs, and intense team dynamics," NBC reports.
