Tadej Pogačar is expected to win the Tour de France, which concludes on Sunday in Paris. This year's race has been notably affected by climate change, experiencing extreme weather conditions including wildfires and record heat. Organizers implemented measures such as banning smoking by TV crews due to dry conditions and limiting the number of vehicles following the race. Pogačar suggested that the race should not take place during the hotter months of July and August.
The race faced significant challenges, including wildfires that threatened the Pyrénées-Orientales region, leading organizers to consider canceling a stage. They ultimately decided to continue but advised fans to avoid certain areas. Race director Christian Prudhomme emphasized the importance of public safety amid the exceptional conditions.
The Tour has also been marked by a record-breaking heatwave, with the first two weeks recording an average temperature of 87 degrees Fahrenheit, the highest in two decades. Athletes have reported difficulties coping with the heat, with Pogačar experiencing headaches during the race. Adjustments were made to hydration and food rules, and one team reported its riders consuming significantly more water than usual. For the first time in its history, a stage was shortened due to extreme heat, with the government allowing for potential cancellations in the event of severe heat alerts. Nighttime temperatures remained high, complicating recovery for the athletes.