Tour de France Femmes breaks viewership records, nearly matches men's race average

The Tour de France Femmes shattered television records this year, captivating a massive audience in France. A total of 23.2 million viewers tuned in for at least some portion of the nine-day race, with an average of 32.9% of those watching TV during broadcast times following the event. This marks a significant increase from last year's 31.6% average viewership.

The race's popularity was particularly evident during the seventh stage, which concluded on the iconic Mont Ventoux. This stage attracted an average viewership of 41.5%, peaking at 5.1 million French viewers. The final stage in Nice also drew substantial numbers, with 3.5 million viewers at its peak and a 35.8% audience share.

These impressive figures are even more remarkable considering that not all stages were broadcast in their entirety. Only three of the nine stages were shown from start to finish, leading to increased calls for organizers to provide full coverage for all stages in the future. Race director Marion Rousse confirmed that discussions are underway with organizers ASO and France Télévisions about this possibility, noting that the strong viewership indicates a demand for complete broadcasts.

Comparatively, the men's Tour de France this year averaged 35.1% of the TV audience, with all 21 stages fully broadcast. The near parity in viewership between the men's and women's races highlights the growing significance and appeal of the women's event. Slovenian cyclist Urška Žigart also made history, becoming the first Slovenian woman to complete the modern Tour de France twice.

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We are seriously considering this, because the women deserve it, and the viewership shows that it works.