The Tour de France is facing a heatwave crisis, and Tadej Pogacar is calling for a radical overhaul of the race calendar. With temperatures soaring, the Slovenian rider, a four-time Tour de France winner, is urging a shift in the race schedule to protect the health and well-being of the cyclists.
Pogacar's frustration is evident as he highlights the challenges of racing in extreme heat. He suggests starting stages earlier, even before 8 am, to avoid the scorching afternoon sun. This idea is not new, as the Professional Cyclists Association (CPA) has also emphasized the need for earlier start times to protect athlete health.
The race's ninth stage, from Malemort to Ussel, was shortened due to the heatwave, but the CPA argues that more needs to be done. They call for discussions with all stakeholders to implement a comprehensive extreme weather conditions protocol before the summer of 2027. This includes adjusting start times and potentially exploring other measures to ensure rider safety.
The impact of the heat is evident in the peloton. Despite having a manageable saddle sore, Tom Pidcock had his best day in the Tour, finishing third in the breakaway. The race's undulating nature, with steep climbs and altitude gain, exacerbates the heat's effects. Riders are resorting to extreme measures, such as portable cryotherapy units and ice baths, to cool down and recover.
However, some riders, like Tiesj Benoot, question the effectiveness of these measures. Benoot suggests that shortening the stage didn't significantly reduce the heat's impact, as they had already endured eight days of racing in similar conditions. The ASO's Tour director, Christian Prudhomme, acknowledges the logistical challenges of starting stages earlier, citing anti-doping controls as a factor.
The heatwave's impact extends beyond the race itself. With temperatures predicted to remain high, the rest day on Monday may offer little respite. The race organizers and stakeholders must act swiftly to address the heat crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of the cyclists.
In my opinion, the Tour de France needs a comprehensive strategy to combat the heat. Starting stages earlier is a good first step, but it's not enough. The race organizers should collaborate with the CPA and other stakeholders to develop a long-term solution, including potential changes to the race calendar and additional support for riders during extreme weather conditions. The health and safety of the cyclists should be the top priority, and the race must adapt to ensure a fair and safe competition.
