Fierce enthusiasm, devoted spectators, instilling motivation for the future - The exceptional significance of the Tour de France Femmes' expedition to Brittany
Brittany's Embrace of Women's Cycling: A Cultural Milestone
Brittany, a region steeped in cycling tradition, has made a significant mark on women's cycling, particularly with the 2025 Tour de France Femmes. This year, the race started in Brittany for the first time, marking an important milestone in the sport's history and amplifying the region's influence.
Brittany's cycling culture, with its roots in men's cycling, has naturally extended to women's cycling. However, until 2025, no editions of the modern women’s Tour de France had visited Brittany, nor had any Breton female rider won the Tour or its predecessors.
The 2025 edition, which spanned three key stages, was a turning point. It honoured Brittany's deep cycling roots and its growing role in women’s cycling. The passionate fans, waving their regional flags (banniel Breiz) and playing traditional bagpipes (binioù braz), created a festive and inspiring atmosphere.
The Brittany terrain, with its challenging hills and slopes, provided an exciting launchpad for aggressive racing tactics. Riders like Marianne Vos demonstrated tactical mastery on these climbs, while nine local riders participated with strong fan support, showcasing regional talent and enthusiasm.
The inclusion of Brittany revitalised the Tour de France Femmes, drawing record television audiences and huge crowds at the Grand Départ. This attention celebrated the professionalization and visibility of women's cycling in France, linking regional identity with the global progression of the sport.
Brittany’s long cycling heritage offered legitimacy and appeal, inspiring the next generation of female cyclists in the region and beyond. The race has now stood as a reference point for these aspiring cyclists.
As the race exited Brittany on Monday's third stage, the fan-rider relationship has been a symbiotic one, inspiring others, especially young girls. Local heroes like Bernard Hinault, Louison Bobet, Lucien Petit-Breton, and Jean Robic, who account for 11 of France's 36 Tour triumphs, continue to inspire the current generation of Breton riders.
The fan clubs of the home riders were present and prominent during the race. Riders like Marie Le Net, Maëva Squiban, Célia Le Mouël, Elyne Roussel, and Titia Ryo, racing at Arkéa-B&B Hotels, received warm support from their home crowd. Ryo was particularly happy to see herself printed on dozens of t-shirts.
Le Net, the French champion, has been wearing a smile and the tricolor with pride this weekend, describing her experience racing up the hill as "magical." Ryo expressed that it means a lot to her that so many people came out for her. Squiban, who won the combativity prize, also felt the energy and support from the crowd.
The 2025 Tour de France Femmes in Brittany has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on women's cycling, elevating its profile and inspiring a new generation of cyclists.
Sports in Brittany, with its long cycling heritage, have witnessed an unprecedented growth in women's cycling after the successful 2025 Tour de France Femmes. The race's presence in Brittany not only revitalized the event but also served as a reference and inspiration for the next generation of female cyclists in the region and beyond.
