Tour de France

Written by Caleigh Erickson, AFC Intern 

Most people all around the world have heard of the Tour de France, and are aware of its location and premise. But how much do you actually know about it? Here are a few fun facts about the world's largest annual sporting event:

-This year marks the 101st Tour de France, going from July 5th through July 27th.
-The race has 21 stages, and stretches 3,664 kilometers.
-The race does not only take place in France, it actually goes through parts of the United Kingdom, Spain, and Belgium!
-The terrain of the race ranges from flat, to hills, to mountain.
-An estimated 3.5 billion people tune in from 188 countries to watch the Tour de France from all around the world each year.
-In addition, the race has 12 million spectators along the route!
-Even though the race started in 1903, the race was not run during both World Wars, therefore making this the 101st instead of the 111th Tour de France.
-Prior to each stage of the race, a special caravan rides through made up of 250 vehicles, including music, dancers, and skits!
-Until the 1960's, contestants would drink wine during the race instead of water!

Hopefully you've learned something new about this great sporting event! For more information about the Tour de France, check out the official website!