About Tour de France 2027 - History, Mission & Organization

Our Heritage

More than a century of cycling excellence, passion, and unforgettable moments across the roads of France.

The Tour de France was born in 1903 from the vision of journalist Géo Lefèvre and editor Henri Desgrange at the newspaper L'Auto. What started as a bold experiment to boost newspaper circulation has evolved into the world's most prestigious and challenging cycling race.

Over 124 editions, the Tour has witnessed legendary battles between cycling icons - from Jacques Anquetil and Eddy Merckx to Bernard Hinault, Miguel Indurain, Lance Armstrong, Chris Froome, and the modern rivalry between Tadej Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard.

Today, the Tour de France attracts over 12 million spectators roadside, broadcasts to 190+ countries, and represents the ultimate test of human endurance, strategy, and teamwork in professional sport.

1903 First Edition

124 Editions Held

12M+ Roadside Fans

190+ Countries Broadcast

Tour de France heritage and history since 1903

Our Mission & Vision

Guiding principles that drive us to create the world's most extraordinary cycling event.

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Our Mission

To organize and deliver the world's most prestigious cycling race that celebrates human achievement, showcases the beauty of France, and inspires millions of fans worldwide. We are committed to clean sport, athlete welfare, and creating unforgettable sporting moments that transcend generations.

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Our Vision

To be the global benchmark for sustainable, innovative, and inclusive sporting events. By 2030, we aim to achieve carbon-neutral operations, expand cycling's global reach, and continue the Tour de France's legacy as the ultimate test of athletic excellence while embracing the future of sport.

Our Core Values

The principles that guide every decision we make and every stage we organize.

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Excellence

We pursue the highest standards in everything we do - from route design to fan experience, honoring the legacy of champions past and present.

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Tradition

We honor 120+ years of cycling heritage while building upon the iconic traditions that make the Tour de France unique in world sport.

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Innovation

We embrace new technologies, formats, and ideas to enhance the experience for riders, fans, and partners in an ever-evolving sporting landscape.

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Sustainability

We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and leading the sporting world in responsible event management and ecological stewardship.

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Inclusivity

We welcome fans, riders, and communities from every background, making the Tour de France a truly global celebration of cycling.

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Integrity

We champion clean sport, fair competition, and transparency in all our operations, upholding the values that make cycling great.

About ASO

Amaury Sport Organisation - The organizer behind the world's greatest cycling race.

Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) is the leading sports event organizer in France and one of the most prestigious in the world. A subsidiary of the EPA Media group (formerly Groupe Amaury), ASO was founded in 1992 and is headquartered in Paris, France.

ASO organizes more than 70 sporting events annually across 30 countries, reaching billions of viewers worldwide. Beyond the Tour de France, ASO is responsible for iconic events including the Paris Marathon, Roland-Garros tennis tournament, Paris-Dakar Rally, and the UCI Road World Championships.

The organization employs over 400 permanent staff members, growing to more than 2,000 during peak event periods. ASO's expertise in sports event management, media production, and fan engagement has made it the benchmark for sporting excellence globally.

1992 Founded

70+ Events Annually

30 Countries

400+ Permanent Staff

2B+ Global Viewers

Historic Milestones

Key moments that have shaped the Tour de France into the legendary event it is today.

1903

The First Tour de France

Maurice Garin wins the inaugural Tour de France, covering 2,428 km over 19 days. Only 21 of 60 starters finish the grueling race.

1903

1919

The Yellow Jersey is Born

The iconic Maillot Jaune (Yellow Jersey) is introduced to identify the race leader, inspired by the yellow paper of L'Auto newspaper.

1919

1947

Post-War Revival

After cancellation during World War II, the Tour de France returns with a renewed spirit, symbolizing France's recovery and resilience.

1947

1975

Champs-Élysées Finale

The final stage moves to the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris, creating one of sport's most recognizable finishes.

1975

1992

ASO Takes Control

Amaury Sport Organisation is founded, taking over organization of the Tour de France and ushering in a new era of professional management.

1992

2027

The 124th Edition

Tour de France 2027 promises a spectacular edition featuring 21 stages, 8 mountain challenges, and the return to legendary climbs across France.

2027

Leadership Team

Meet the dedicated professionals who bring the Tour de France to life each year.

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Christian Prudhomme

Race Director

Director of the Tour de France since 2007, Christian has shaped the modern route with innovative stage designs that honor tradition while embracing new challenges.

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Yann Le Moënner

CEO, ASO

Leading ASO's strategic vision, Yann oversees the organization's portfolio of world-class sporting events and its global expansion.

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Fabien Dagnieu

Deputy Director

Working alongside the Race Director, Fabien coordinates the complex logistics of organizing a three-week race across France.

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Marie Barsacq

Director of Legacy & Impact

Leading ASO's sustainability initiatives and social impact programs, Marie drives the organization's commitment to responsible sport.

Our Sustainability Commitment

Tour de France 2027 is committed to reducing environmental impact and leading sustainable sport.

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Carbon Reduction

Targeting 50% carbon footprint reduction by 2030 through optimized logistics, renewable energy use, and sustainable transportation for race operations.

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Zero Waste Initiative

Comprehensive waste management program with recycling stations at every stage, biodegradable materials, and partnerships with local waste management authorities.

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Cycling Promotion

Supporting grassroots cycling programs, urban cycling infrastructure, and youth development initiatives across France and globally.

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Environmental Protection

Working with environmental organizations to protect natural landscapes along the route, including mountain ecosystems and coastal areas.

About FAQ

Common questions about the Tour de France, its history, and organization.

What is the Tour de France? +

The Tour de France is the world's most prestigious professional cycling race, organized annually since 1903 by Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO). It covers approximately 3,500 kilometers over 21 stages across France and neighboring countries, attracting the world's elite cyclists and millions of spectators.

Who organizes the Tour de France? +

The Tour de France is organized by Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), a subsidiary of the EPA Media group (formerly Groupe Amaury). ASO is headquartered in Paris, France, and organizes over 70 sporting events annually across 30 countries, including the Paris Marathon, Roland-Garros tennis tournament, and Paris-Dakar Rally.

When was the first Tour de France held? +

The first Tour de France was held in 1903, organized by newspaper L'Auto (predecessor to today's L'Équipe) to boost circulation. Maurice Garin won the inaugural edition, which covered 2,428 kilometers over 19 days. The race has been held annually since, except during World Wars I and II.

What is the mission of Tour de France 2027? +

The mission of Tour de France 2027 is to celebrate the 124th edition of the world's greatest cycling race while advancing sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. We aim to deliver an unforgettable sporting spectacle while reducing environmental impact and inspiring the next generation of cyclists worldwide.

What are the core values of the Tour de France? +

The Tour de France is built on core values of excellence, tradition, innovation, sustainability, inclusivity, and integrity. We celebrate human achievement, promote clean sport, protect the environment, and welcome fans from around the world to share in the passion of cycling.

How can I contact the Tour de France organization? +

You can contact ASO through our official website contact form, by email at [email protected], or by mail at ASO, 10 rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris, France. For media inquiries, please use our dedicated press contact form. For sponsorship opportunities, visit our partners section.

What makes Tour de France 2027 special? +

Tour de France 2027 marks the 124th edition of the race and features a spectacular route with 8 mountain stages including legendary climbs like Alpe d'Huez, Col du Galibier, Mont Ventoux, and the highest paved road in Europe - Col de la Bonette. The edition also emphasizes sustainability with enhanced environmental initiatives and innovative fan experiences.

The Legacy of Tour de France