A wave of cycling excitement swept through Montmartre on Sunday as fans gathered in huge numbers ahead of the Tour de France’s final stage. Hours before the riders were set to arrive, thousands of spectators filled the streets of this iconic Paris neighborhood, eager to catch a glimpse of the peloton as it climbed the famous hill.
This year, the Tour route took a new turn, incorporating Montmartre’s steep ascent—a decision inspired by the overwhelming success of the Olympic road races held in Paris last summer. During those races, Montmartre was packed with fans, captivated by the intense competition and the area’s stunning city views and rich artistic history.
Motivated by that electric Olympic atmosphere, race organizers included the Montmartre climb in the Tour’s finale this summer—and it proved a hit. By early Sunday, fans were already lining the cobblestone Rue Lepic and the steps below the Sacré-Coeur basilica, hoping for the perfect view of race leader Tadej Pogačar and his challengers.
The mood was festive, filled with applause, cheering, and singing. Groups of fans, many wearing polka-dot jerseys, chanted enthusiastically, including a lively “La, la, la, la, la, Kevin Vauquelin!” in support of the top-ranked French rider.
Cyclists were set to ascend the hill past the Sacré-Coeur before heading toward the Champs-Élysées for the final sprint. Along the way, they’d also pass the famous Moulin Rouge, where dancers in blue, white, and red costumes were scheduled to perform a classic French Cancan in celebration.
Traditionally, the Tour’s final stage is a ceremonial ride until the final sprint on the Champs-Élysées. However, this year’s challenging climb—just under 7 kilometers from the finish line—made it less likely that sprinters would dominate the stage outcome.
The change marks a return to Paris after last year’s Tour ended in Nice due to a scheduling clash with the Olympics. Now, with the Champs-Élysées once again hosting the grand finale of the 3,320-kilometer (2,060-mile) race, Paris is reclaiming its central place in the world’s most prestigious cycling event.
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