Sports and Fitness: Women Riding Toward the Tour de France

Ever wondered if women have tried to qualify for the Tour de France? The answer is a big, enthusiastic yes. Riders, fans, and activists have been pushing the boundaries for years, and the story keeps evolving. In this article we’ll look at the trail they’ve blazed, what’s happening now, and how you can be part of the change.

Women Breaking Barriers in Cycling

Back in the early 1900s, the Tour was an all‑men event, and the idea of a woman racing the mountains seemed impossible. That didn’t stop pioneers like Jeannie Longo, who won dozens of races but never got a shot at the Tour. Fast forward to 2012, British rider Kathryn Bertine launched a campaign demanding a women’s edition of the race. She gathered a petition, rallied media, and even rode a test course before the main event.

The pressure paid off in 2014 when the organizers introduced La Course by Le Tour de France. It’s a one‑day race on the Champs‑Élysées, and it gave female cyclists a global stage. While the race is impressive, many riders feel it’s still a side‑show compared to a full‑week Tour. The gap is clear: men race over 3,500 km in three weeks; women get a single day.

Recent years have seen a surge in grassroots support. In 2021, the UCI announced a women’s Tour de France, set to start in 2022, but execution has been delayed. Still, the conversation is louder than ever. Teams are investing in women’s rosters, sponsors are allocating budgets, and fans are filling social feeds with #WomenInTour hashtags.

How You Can Support the Push

If you’re wondering how to help, start small. Follow women’s racing accounts on social media and share their wins. When a race like La Course is on TV, watch it live and encourage friends to do the same. Your viewership numbers matter to broadcasters.

Another practical step is to write to race organizers. A polite email to Amaury Sport Organisation asking for a multi‑day women’s Tour shows that the demand isn’t just a niche. Local cycling clubs often host charity rides for gender equality—joining those rides puts you on the front line.

For cyclists, training alongside women’s teams can be eye‑opening. Many clubs now host mixed‑gender group rides. Riding with stronger female athletes not only improves your fitness but also builds camaraderie that fuels advocacy.

Lastly, consider buying merch from women‑focused cycling brands. A portion of the sales often goes toward development programs for young female riders. It feels good to wear a jersey that supports a cause you care about.

So, what’s next? Keep an eye on the upcoming 2025 women's Tour preview, support the riders today, and stay vocal about equal opportunities. The world of sports and fitness is moving fast—don’t miss the chance to be part of a historic shift.