Mandatory Mask Usage and Fan Selfie Ban Implemented by Tour de France for Riders and Staff Outside Racing Events

The Tour de France will once again implement strict Covid-19 restrictions on riders and staff, it has been announced. Riders will be required to wear masks at the team paddock, the sign-on podium, and the winners’ podium and should limit their interactions with supporters. These measures are similar to last season’s edition of the race, where 16 racers left the tour due to contracting the virus and five quit before it had even begun.

Only 135 cyclists finished the race in 2022, the lowest number since 2000, even though 176 had started it. Reuters reported that teams have been instructed to maintain social distancing and avoid close contact with spectators. This includes refraining from taking selfies, signing autographs, and having dinners in restaurants.

2020 Tour de France winner Tadej Pogacar celebrated his big win in a Covid-19 mask

This will be the fourth Tour de France since Covid-19 first rocked the world in 2020

Teams have been instructed to “respect confinement” and limit interactions outside the race bubble. They are advised to avoid eating out and adhere to social distancing guidelines at the hotel. The recent positive Covid-19 test results and incidents during the Giro d’Italia have led to tightened restrictions to ensure that the Tour de France runs as smoothly as possible. The Amaury Sport Organisation, which organizes the Tour, describes these measures in France and Spain, where the race begins, as “preventive”.

Although there are no specific rules for fans, they are encouraged to wear masks when near the riders. It is unclear what punishments the athletes would face for not complying with these mandates, but automatic expulsion is unlikely. The International Cycling Union has stated that the health risks of Covid-19 among cyclists are currently extremely low due to vaccinations.

The 2023 Tour de France will commence on Saturday, July 1st.