The Tour de France Femmes contenders: Why the old guard will need to keep an eye on the youngsters

The Tour de France Femmes, introduced in 2022, has quickly become the most prestigious event in women's cycling, with its GC podium historically dominated by established elite riders. However, a wave of young riders aged 21-23 has been upsetting major races throughout the current season, raising questions about whether the established order will hold at this year's edition. Stage 1 is set to take place on August 1 in Lausanne, covering 137 km with 1,863 metres of climbing in hot conditions.