Tour de France Stage Shortened by Bovine Nodular Dermatosis

The profile of a key stage in the upcoming cycling race has been considerably altered. The route will now cover 95 kilometers, a reduction from the originally planned 129.9 kilometers.

The ceremonial start will still take place in Albertville,but at 2:30 PM,a full hour later than initially scheduled. This adjustment will certainly add an interesting dynamic for spectators and participants alike.

After an initial 7-kilometer parade, riders will transition too the D925 for the true start of the competition. The race then reconnects with the original course just before Beaufort, at approximately kilometer 52.4.

Three challenging climbs remain on the revised route. Participants will face the formidable Col du Pré, a non-categorized ascent spanning 12.6 kilometers with an average gradient of 7.7%. Following this, they will tackle the scenic cormet de Roselend, a 5.9-kilometer climb at 6.3%.

The stage culminates with a demanding final ascent to La Plagne. This 19.1-kilometer climb averages a 7.2% gradient, leading to an arrival at an altitude of 2,052 meters. This finish line has a storied history in the Tour de France.

This marks the fifth time La Plagne has hosted a Tour de France finish. notable past winners include Laurent Fignon, who triumphed ther in both 1984 and 1987. Alex Zülle of Switzerland won in 1995, and Michaël Boogerd of the Netherlands secured victory in 2002 after an extraordinary solo breakaway covering 93 kilometers.

Spectators can look forward to the race commencing from Albertville at 2:30 PM, with the exciting finish anticipated around 5:30 PM in La Plagne.

Evergreen Insight: Race organizers frequently adjust routes due to various factors, from weather to logistical challenges. These changes, while sometimes minor, can significantly impact race dynamics and rider strategies, often leading to more unpredictable and exciting competitions.

What are your thoughts on this route change? Share your predictions and comments below!

What are teh potential economic consequences for farmers when cattle are infected with Bovine Nodular Dermatosis (BND)?

The Unexpected Halt: Stage 17 Impacted

On July 24th, 2025, a surprising progress forced organizers of the Tour de France to shorten Stage 17, running from Saint-Gaudens to Pau. The cause? Not a crash, mechanical failure, or even inclement weather, but an outbreak of Bovine Nodular Dermatosis (BND) in cattle herds along the planned route. This highly contagious viral disease affecting cattle prompted a precautionary measure to minimize the risk of spreading the disease further. The shortened stage concluded at 83km, considerably altering the race dynamics.

Understanding Bovine Nodular Dermatosis (BND)

Bovine Nodular Dermatosis is a viral disease that primarily affects cattle and water buffalo. It’s characterized by the development of firm nodules on the animal’s skin, along with fever, loss of appetite, and reduced milk production. While not typically fatal, BND can cause significant economic losses for farmers due to decreased productivity and trade restrictions.

Here’s a breakdown of key facts about BND:

Transmission: Primarily spread by biting insects (flies, mosquitoes), but also through contaminated equipment, direct contact, and potentially through infected bodily fluids.

Symptoms: Skin nodules, fever, swollen lymph nodes, watery eyes, and nasal discharge.

Geographic Distribution: Historically found in Africa and Asia, BND has been increasingly reported in Europe in recent years, including outbreaks in the Balkans and Italy. The 2025 outbreak impacting the Tour de France occurred in southwestern France.

Impact on Livestock: Reduced milk yield, weight loss, and potential secondary bacterial infections.

Why the Tour de France Route Was Affected

The decision to shorten the stage wasn’t taken lightly. French authorities, in consultation with the Tour de France organizers (ASO), steadfast that the risk of vehicles and personnel potentially carrying the virus to unaffected areas was too high. The route passed directly through regions with confirmed BND cases, and the movement of the caravan – the extensive parade of vehicles accompanying the race – posed a significant risk.

Specifically, the concern revolved around:

Vehicle Contamination: Tires and undercarriages potentially picking up the virus from infected areas.

Personnel Movement: Race staff, journalists, and spectators traveling between affected and unaffected regions.

Economic Impact: Preventing further spread of BND to protect the livelihoods of French farmers.

The Shortened Stage: Race Implications

The reduction of Stage 17 from its original 178km to 83km had a noticeable impact on the general classification contenders. The altered route favored riders who excel in shorter, more explosive climbs.

Reduced Possibility for Breakaways: The shorter distance limited the chances for long-range breakaway attempts to succeed.

Increased Intensity: the compressed distance meant a faster pace and more aggressive racing from the start.

Shift in Tactics: Teams had to adjust their strategies, focusing on maximizing gains in the remaining kilometers.

GC Contenders: Riders like Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogačar, known for their climbing prowess, were expected to benefit from the steeper gradients within the shortened route.

BND and Biosecurity Measures in Sports Events

This incident highlights the growing importance of biosecurity measures in large-scale sporting events. The potential for disease outbreaks to disrupt competitions is a real and increasing concern.

Here are some preventative measures that can be implemented:

Risk Assessment: Thoroughly assessing the potential disease risks in the event’s location.

Veterinary Surveillance: Monitoring animal health in the surrounding areas.

Vehicle Disinfection: Implementing protocols for disinfecting vehicles entering and leaving the event zone.

Personnel Screening: Conducting health checks for personnel traveling to and from the event.

Public Awareness: Educating spectators and the local community about disease prevention.

Past Precedents: Disease Disruptions in Cycling

While unusual, this isn’t the first time health concerns have impacted professional cycling.

COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021): The pandemic caused numerous race cancellations and postponements, and strict protocols were implemented to protect riders and staff.

Foot-and-Mouth disease (2001): An outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in the UK led to the cancellation of several cycling events, including stages of the Tour of Britain.

* African Swine Fever: Concerns about the spread of African Swine Fever have led to route adjustments in some races passing through affected areas.