A stage through time: Citroën and the Tour de France
Relationship between Citroën and the Tour de France
It was impossible to participate in this event without realizing the long and meaningful relationship between Citroën and the Tour de France. Since the creation of Citroën in 1919 by André Citroën, the brand has had a deep and inseparable connection with this legendary cycling race.
Citroën SpaceTourer
As we drove along the stage route, in the comfortable Citroën SpaceTourer, it was not hard to see Citroën’s legacy in the Tour de France. From the many service and support vehicles to the official cars, Citroën’s presence was tangible. You could almost taste the nostalgia in seeing these modern interpretations of the iconic cars that were the backbone of racing for decades, such as the unmistakable Citroën DS from the 1950s and 1960s. On more than one occasion, a beautiful collection of “ducklings” also showed off the landscape.
Possible bycatch
Nice to see the AG2R Citroën Team up close. The excitement before the race among the riders, as well as the coaching staff. The final details, such as accurately inflating the tires and sticking the stage profile on the handlebars. The team’s ambition was clear: keep Austrian leader Felix Gall’s spot in the top 10. Possible side benefit: winning the famous polka dot jersey and possibly a second stage win. Gall eventually retained his spot in the standings, finishing second behind the incomparable Tadej Pogacar. Mission accomplished.
Vivid memory
As we drove to the finish line, it dawned on us that this was not just a visit to the Tour de France, but a tribute to the shared history between the race and Citroën. The ride was a celebration of sportsmanship, technological advances and, of course, the unparalleled beauty of France. It was, in essence, a ride through time, and a vivid reminder of Citroën’s indelible footprint in the Tour de France.
Good to know: the AG2R Citroën Team’s fleet consists of the following vehicles: nine units of the C5 Aircross Plug-in Hybrid, ten units of the C5 X Plug-in Hybrid and seven times a Spacetourer.
