The route planning for the Tour de France begins several years in advance, with organizers meticulously mapping out each edition to balance sporting challenges, scenic beauty, and fan engagement. Tour director Christian Prudhomme initiates the process three years prior to the race by selecting the host city for the Grand Depart, the event’s ceremonial start. Following this, he determines the race direction and selects the departure and arrival towns for all 21 stages from a pool of approximately 300 candidates, which includes about 50 international locations.

Prudhomme emphasized that while sporting considerations such as terrain are important, other factors heavily influence the route design. “If we only took sporting issues into consideration, every year we would be there,” he said, referring to the southern half of France, known for its flat, medium, and challenging mountain terrain. However, the director highlighted the significance of including various regions such as Brittany, the north, and Normandy due to their passionate cycling culture and enthusiastic fan receptions.

Scenic value plays a key role, with organizers aware that a large portion of viewers tune in not only for the competition but also for the picturesque landscapes. Weekend stages and the stage held on Bastille Day, France’s national holiday, receive particular attention because they typically attract the highest television audiences.

There are also traditional course features deemed essential by organisers. Iconic climbs like the Tournante, Galibier, Ventoux, and Alpe d’Huez remain non-negotiable elements due to their historic and sporting significance. Sentiment also factors into route choices; for example, the 2023 Tour passed through Castelnau-Magnoac, hometown of French rugby captain Antoine Dupont, ahead of the Rugby World Cup in France. In 2014, the race incorporated seven stages tracing the World War I frontline, underscoring the event’s connection to history and culture.

Once the stage towns are selected, route director Thierry Gouvenou takes over to chart the exact course, which typically totals around 3,000 kilometers. Beginning in late August, Gouvenou spends about a month using mapping technology and cycling apps to finalize the route, while also considering suggestions from fans. He personally surveys potential problem areas, particularly in town centers where obstacles such as traffic-calming measures can threaten rider safety.

Gouvenou and his team conduct thorough on-site inspections to log hazards, assess layouts, and determine the locations for intermediate sprints and climb summits. The finalized itinerary is publicly announced in Paris every October, approximately nine months ahead of the race start, providing fans and participants with a detailed look at the course they will follow.