The intense heatwave in the south of France is pushing even the professional cyclists in the 113th Tour de France to their limits – and a debate is underway about the physical consequences and possible changes. “That’s not exactly what you’d call healthy,” said Nico Denz, team-mate of last year’s third-placed rider Florian Lipowitz, after the fourth stage to Foix – albeit with a laugh. But he also made it clear: “It’s really brutal.”
The 32-year-old praised the team support staff. “I don’t know how many thousands of bottles they’ve filled already. And it was definitely key today to keep a cool head and get as much ice and water as possible.”
Temperatures of over 40 degrees
It had been hot and sunny ever since the start in Barcelona last Saturday, but Tuesday’s stage marked a new high. The temperature was over 40 degrees. It was probably even higher on the tarmac. Temperatures are also expected to be well over 30 degrees on Wednesday on the way to Pau. “I don’t know if this is still good for the body, but it had to be done; now I need a cold shower first,” Nils Politt told ARD.
With cooling vests, plenty of fluids, ice cubes on the back of their necks and ice baths after each stage, the riders try to protect their bodies from overheating. The International Cycling Union (UCI) has made an exception, allowing whole feed bags to be handed out in zones normally reserved for water bottles.
Haller: “It’s certainly borderline”
There is discussion about shortening the stages or moving them to earlier in the day. The latter in particular could prove difficult for logistical reasons and because of the TV broadcasts, but more riders are voicing their concerns.
“It’s certainly borderline,” the Austrian Marco Haller told ZDF. “We really ought to give it some thought, sit down together and find a constructive solution.” He understands both sides. “It’s just not like football, where you’d have a hydration break after 25 minutes.” At the current World Cup, there are drinking breaks roughly halfway through each half.
Ralph Denk, team manager for Denz and Lipowitz, was more cautious in his comments. “I think it’s just part of the deal, even here at the Tour de France. Everyone knows it’s hot,” he said. “I’m always open to discussion, but you really have to look at the bigger picture. Making ad hoc decisions here and now would certainly be the wrong approach.” He added that this was also the responsibility of the world governing body and the organisers.
Meanwhile, Denz had something else on his mind. What was he most looking forward to after the stage? “The ice bath at the back of the bus.”
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