The UCI has changed its rules on feeding in races due to the extreme heat at the Tour de France.
In a press release on Tuesday morning ahead of stage four, cycling’s governing body said that feeding bags or musettes will now be allowed in feed zones initially designated just for bottles.
More bottles will be allowed to be handed out in musettes, essentially, due to the ruling.
Earlier this week, fans were told not to attend the final 44km of stage three due to a wildfire that is raging in the eastern Pyrenees – and the race organisers have not ruled out a stage cancellation or additional amendments to the route.
On Tuesday, stage three’s finish in Les Angles was notably empty, and temperatures are expected to reach 37°C in Foix for stage four’s finish. The French government has given out permissions to local areas to cancel Tour stages if a Code Red weather alert is raised.
The Tour has given advice to fans on how they can protect themselves in the extreme weather: “Before the riders pass by, during the stage, and after the finish: seek shade as soon as possible, wear a cap or hat, and drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.”
The UCI press release reads: “The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), in agreement with the President of the Commissaires’ Panel, who holds sporting authority over the event, and the organiser, who bears organisational responsibility for its running, has decided to soften the provisions governing rider feeding in light of the extreme heat forecast over the coming stages of the Tour de France.
“In this regard, it has been decided to exceptionally authorise the use of feeding bags in zones initially defined for the provision of bottles only (‘water bottle zones) located within listed climbs. This measure is intended to facilitate the simultaneous distribution of multiple bottles to each rider, so as to ensure optimal hydration in the forecast weather conditions.
“This measure is being implemented on a trial basis and will be reviewed in light of weather conditions, its effectiveness, and its impact on the smooth running of the event.”
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