L’Étape Series in Olympic Cities: Where the Tour de France Meets the Games
This week, L’Étape Greece by Tour de France will take place in Ancient Olympia. This legendary city, where the first Games were held in 776 BC, perfectly embodies the spirit of challenge and camaraderie shared by both the Olympics and L’Étape Series.
It also serves as a reminder that several cities hosting L’Étape Series events have also been home to the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Ancient Olympia (776 BC) – A Ride Through the Roots of the Games
This Saturday, the 12th of April 2025, L’Étape Greece by Tour de France brings cyclists to the most symbolic starting line of all: Ancient Olympia, where the Olympic Games began nearly 2,800 years ago.
Surrounded by olive trees, archaeological treasures, and timeless energy, participants will ride through a landscape rich in mythology and athletic tradition. This event is not just a race—it’s a tribute to the spiritual birthplace of global sport, where the ideals of effort, excellence, and respect were first celebrated.
Mexico City (1968) – High-Altitude Olympic and Cycling Legacy
The 1968 Summer Olympic Games in Mexico City were revolutionary, marked by record-breaking performances and innovations in sports science. It was also the first time the Olympics were held in Latin America. The city's high altitude (2,240 meters) played a key role in shaping athletic performances, favoring endurance and sprinting events.
L’Étape Ciudad de Mexico will allow amateur cyclists to experience this unique environment firsthand on the 30th of November. The race takes participants through an urban yet demanding course, where they can push their limits in the same city that once welcomed Olympians.
Albertville (1992) – A Gateway to Legendary Climbs
The 1992 Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Albertville left a lasting legacy on the region. Nestled in the French Alps, Albertville serves as a gateway to some of the most iconic Tour de France climbs, including the Col de la Madeleine and Col du Galibier.
That’s why L’Étape du Tour, the most prestigious amateur cycling event, often starts from Albertville (2012, 2019 and 2025). This year, 15,000 cyclists will take on the Col des Saisies, Col du Pré, and Col du Cormet de Roselend, before the final ascent to La Plagne, where bobsleigh and luge competitions took place during the 1992 Winter Games. The event embodies key Olympic values—determination, endurance, and pushing beyond one’s limits.
Rio de Janeiro (2016) – Riding the Route of Olympic Cycling Glory
In 2016, Rio de Janeiro made history as the first South American city to host the Olympic Games. The road cycling event was among the most spectacular, featuring a challenging route along the picturesque coastline, through Copacabana, Ipanema, and the steep climbs of Vista Chinesa.
L’Étape Rio de Janeiro will continue this legacy on the 29th of June 2025, offering amateur cyclists the opportunity to experience the Tour de France spirit while challenging themselves in the same Vista Chinesa circuit where Olympic road racers battled for gold.
L’Étape Series: A Tribute to the Olympic Games
From the high-altitude challenge of Mexico City to the snow-covered legacy of Albertville, the tropical thrill of Rio, and the sacred ground of Ancient Olympia, these cities highlight the deep connection between L’Étape Series and the Olympic spirit.
Just like the Games, cycling is about pushing limits, embracing challenges, and celebrating a shared passion for sport.
This week, as cyclists ride through Ancient Olympia, they won’t just be pedaling through history—they will become part of it.
