The Tour de France Femmes has found itself at the centre of a fresh controversy after allegations emerged that some riders may have used padded bras to gain an aerodynamic advantage during the race. Reports claim that concerns were raised by several women’s WorldTour teams before the individual time trial, leading to increased scrutiny from race officials.

Cyclists are suspected of placing padding in their bras - which redirects air flow around the body, thus reducing resistance - in a banned practice known as chest fairing.

Les commissaires vont être attentifs à la présence de soutiens-gorge rembourrés, qui peuvent apporter un avantage.