Prior to the time trial segment of the Tour de France Femmes leading to Dijon on Tuesday, participants underwent scrutiny for concealed aerodynamic modifications, specifically padded chest fairings. This measure is part of an ongoing effort to uphold the integrity of cycling regulations.
The International Cycling Union (UCI) prohibits alterations to body shape that could enhance aerodynamics. Officials from the UCI were on the lookout for any padded fairings that might artificially streamline airflow and minimize wind resistance.
Earlier in June, male cyclist Jan-Willem van Schip faced disqualification in a French event for placing a water bottle within his racing jersey, a decision based on the claim that it improved his aerodynamic profile and speed.
The UCI’s decision to implement additional checks on selected riders before the Dijon time trial arose from concerns raised by several teams regarding noticeable changes in athletes’ physiques prior to these events.
Stijn Steels, director of the AG Insurance-Soudal team, remarked that he first observed suspicious padding during the Paris Olympics in 2024. He noted, “I noticed a rider who suddenly had pronounced padding.” Steels also mentioned that in the previous year, numerous competitors filled their chest areas with ice or other materials to enhance volume, which can significantly improve aerodynamic efficiency. “While it may only provide a few extra watts, in a time trial, even minor gains can be crucial,” he explained, adding that although it can be effective, he would personally avoid such tactics.
Stephen Delcourt, manager for the FDJ United-Suez team, which includes top contender Demi Vollering, stated, “We adhere strictly to the rules. If there are calls for checks, it indicates that some may be breaching regulations. Each year, teams invest more in wind tunnel testing and evaluate equipment, but we maintain compliance and transparency.”
Marianne Vos, a former world champion and teammate of reigning Tour de France champion Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, expressed her support for the enforcement of clothing regulations. “It’s positive that they are working to uphold the rules,” Vos commented. “Everyone is striving for optimal aerodynamics, leading to some tactics that skirt the edge of legality. However, rules are in place for a reason.”
In a communication to the competing teams at the Tour Femmes, the UCI emphasized that they would closely monitor adherence to guidelines concerning “non-essential items or accessories that could alter a rider’s physique.” Vos added that she did not view the inspections as invasive, stating, “I don’t see it as a body search, so I have no objections as long as it remains respectful.”
Rolf Aldag, team manager for Kasia Niewiadoma, the 2024 Tour Femmes champion, likened the clothing inspections to standard doping tests. “Rules must be enforced; otherwise, there’s no point in having them,” Aldag asserted. “If something warrants checking, it should be done, just as with doping controls. Should we question doping tests? If we do so based on athlete privacy, then we should also eliminate doping checks, which we all agree is not a viable option. The same rules apply to male cyclists, and they would undergo similar scrutiny.”
Bert Blocken, an expert in aerodynamics and mechanical engineering at Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, explained that a chest fairing can significantly modify airflow around a cyclist’s body, reducing drag and allowing for better energy conservation. “While you may not see massive time savings in a single trial, over distances of 20-30 kilometers, the impact can be substantial,” Blocken noted, estimating a potential advantage of 0.78 seconds per kilometer.
The UCI’s directive has prompted allegations of sexism, as no similar clothing inspections were conducted before or after the men’s Tour de France time trial held between Évian-les-Bains and Thonon-les-Bains on July 21.
Philip Roodhooft, manager of the Fenix-Premier Tech team, which secured three stage wins in the men’s Tour, expressed that he was “not surprised that individuals are testing boundaries.” He stated, “Seeing men experiment with strategically placed water bottles suggests that women may also consider such tactics. Nevertheless, it remains unacceptable, as it constitutes cheating.”
