Vive le Tour! – Celebrating French Culture through the Tour de France

As part of our ongoing celebration of French language and culture at Corpus Christi College, we are excited to introduce our students and school community to France's most iconic sporting event: Le Tour de France.

Known as La Grande Boucle (the Great Loop), the Tour de France is the world's most prestigious cycling race and one of the most watched sporting events globally. This year's 112th edition will commence on Saturday, 5 July 2025, in Lille, northern France, and will conclude on Sunday, 27 July 2025 with the traditional finish on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. For the first time in five years, the Tour will take place exclusively within France, allowing riders and spectators to experience the full diversity of l'Hexagone.

A Rich History of Competition

The Tour de France began in 1903 and has grown to become cycling's greatest challenge. Over three weeks, the world's best cyclists will navigate 3,320 kilometres of France's most beautiful and challenging terrain, from the cobblestones of the north to the soaring peaks of the Alps and Pyrénées.

Australia has a proud Tour de France history since 1914. Phil Anderson blazed the trail as the first Australian to wear yellow (1981) and first non-European to lead the race, holding it for nine days in 1982. Cadel Evans made history as Australia's only Tour winner in 2011 at age 34. Notable stars include Robbie McEwen (Green Jersey winner), Richie Porte (top-10 finisher), and Caleb Ewan (stage winner). Australia's 2025 representatives include Ben O'Connor, Jai Hindley, and Luke Plapp, continuing our strong Tour de France legacy.

Did You Know? Les Maillots – The Sacred Jerseys

The Tour de France is famous for its coloured jerseys, each telling a fascinating story of excellence and achievement:

  • Le Maillot Jaune (The Yellow Jersey) – Yellow was chosen in 1919 to match the colour of the pages of L'Auto, the newspaper that created the Tour! This jersey is worn by the overall race leader and is the most coveted prize in professional cycling.

  • Le Maillot Vert (The Green Jersey) – This jersey rewards the most consistent sprinter and versatile rider. It's awarded to the points classification winner who demonstrates speed and reliability across all types of stages.

  • Le Maillot à Pois Rouges (The Polka Dot Jersey) – The distinctive red polka dots on white background honour the "King of the Mountains"! This jersey celebrates those brave enough to conquer France's most challenging peaks.

  • Le Maillot Blanc (The White Jersey) – This jersey is reserved exclusively for the best young rider under 26 years old. It represents the future stars of cycling and symbolizes emerging talent and unlimited potential!

The 2025 Route – Un Parcours Magnifique

This year's route promises spectacular scenery and fierce competition as the peloton travels through historic French regions, medieval villages, and iconic landscapes that have shaped French culture for centuries. From the industrial heritage of the north to the vineyard-covered hills of Burgundy and the dramatic mountain stages that will determine the final champion.

Dans la classe -  In the classroom

As we follow the race in class this year, we will explore vocabulary related to cycling, geography, and Francophone culture — helping students engage with authentic, real-world language experiences.

Follow the Race Online

Explore more about the race, route, and updates from official sources:

Alexandra Carcione