Evolution and Challenges of the Tour de France

This chapter explores the history and evolution of the Tour de France, from its origins as a business competition to a global sporting event generating revenue through TV broadcasting and advertising. It delves into the financial aspects, prize money for riders, class politics, technological advancements in bicycles, the history of doping, and the recent efforts to clean up the sport post-Lance Armstrong era. The chapter also discusses the environmental impact of the event and the challenges posed by climate change on the physical demands of the race.