The world’s greatest bicycle race originated in 1903 because of a feud between two French sports newspapers.The original race, in 1903, had six stages covering 2,388 kilometers (about 1,400 miles).The Tour de France, a cycling competition on the FFC agenda and open to all riders aged over 18, whether they are holders of an FFC licence or not. In July each year, on the same route taken by the Tour de France champions, and three days before them, the Tour de Freance provides for some 7,500 participants the unique opportunity to live through the magic of a mountain stage on a safe route. The Tour de France grew to as many as 24 stages and 5,564 kilometers, but in recent years the distance has ranged from about 3,500 to about 4,000 kilometers.

The 2001 race included 20 stages and two rest days. There were ten flat stages, three medium mountain stages, four high mountain stages, two individual time trials, and one team time trial.
Entry to the race is by invitation only. Race organizers invite about 20 teams, each with nine cyclists, to compete. Total prize money is 16 million francs, equivalent to approximately $2.1 million.