Montmartre Circuit Shines as Tour de France Final Stage Thrills with Star Attacks and Spectacular Crowds

The Tour de France is shaking things up with the Montmartre circuit becoming a permanent fixture for its final stage. This change follows the thrilling twist to the traditional sprint stage on the Champs-Élysées, which drew huge crowds and excitement this year.

Riders faced challenges with wet cobbles and steep descents in Montmartre, but many embraced the festive atmosphere. Instead of just playing it safe, some chose to race hard, creating a memorable climax to the Tour.

Wout van Aert and Tadej Pogačar put on a show, with van Aert outpacing the competition on the final hill. Others, like Jonas Vingegaard and Geraint Thomas, took a slower approach, engaging with fans as they celebrated the end of the race.

This circuit is a fresh twist, showing how the Tour continues to evolve. It coincided with the successful 2024 Paris Olympic Games and marks 50 years since the Champs-Élysées was first used in the Tour. While organizers faced some logistical hurdles, the new route injected energy into the final day.

Race director Pierre-Yves Thouault expressed excitement about maintaining this iconic route. “The success has exceeded our expectations,” he noted. Calls for a potential one-day event, the “Paris Classic,” have also emerged, highlighting Montmartre’s appeal.

As the Tour de France looks ahead to 2026 and beyond, excitement is building. Recent surveys show that over 80% of fans enjoyed the Montmartre change and want to see it continued. The French media has also echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for innovation in the race.

Upcoming decisions about the Montmartre route are expected by September, with an official confirmation coming in October when the new route is announced. French authorities, including President Emmanuel Macron, are keen to showcase Paris in all its glory during this global event. As noted by Deputy Mayor for Sports Pierre Rabadan, “We must cherish moments of sharing and communion.”

The Tour de France isn’t just about cycling; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and passion—making Montmartre a fitting backdrop for its grand finale.

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