Record heatwaves at Tour de France. Famous race threatens cyclists' health

Record-breaking heatwaves are turning the Tour de France into an extreme sport, posing significant health risks to cyclists, a new scientific study warns. Researchers analyzed 50 years of temperature data from key locations along the race route and found that conditions are deteriorating rapidly due to rising temperatures.

The study, published in 'Scientific Research,' highlights that while the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) established a "safety threshold" of 28 degrees Celsius based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index, this measure may prove insufficient. The UCI has not precisely defined what organizers should do when this threshold is exceeded. The research indicates that heat stress conditions, which were previously rare or occurred outside the race period, are becoming more frequent and could soon be exceeded almost routinely.

Cyclists face extreme exertion during the Tour de France, covering approximately 3,500 kilometers with minimal rest, often transitioning from cities to high-altitude mountain terrains. Traditionally held in July, the race coincides with periods of high heat. Recent years have seen athletes struggle with the heat, impacting their ability to complete the race, not just to win. Scientists involved in the study noted that athletes have already experienced falls due to the conditions, even before encountering the most severe heatwaves.

Dr. Madeleine Orr, an expert from the University of Toronto, commented that the current conditions raise questions about what is considered safe in professional cycling. The UCI recommends measures like ice vests or cold towels when the safety threshold is breached, but the study suggests these might not be adequate given the escalating temperatures and the inherent demands of the race.

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Athletes complain about the conditions on the route. Some have already experienced falls because of it, and these are not yet the harshest heatwaves they could face. This says a lot about what we consider safety.