How to Watch the Tour de France: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Tour de France is an annual cycling race that began in 1903 and is considered one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world. Every summer, the Tour de France brings together some of the best cyclists from around the world for a grueling three-week race that covers more than 2,000 miles. For many, the Tour de France is a chance to witness an incredible feat of athleticism and endurance, as well as take in the stunning French countryside.

For those who can’t make it out to France for the race, there are still plenty of ways to follow along with the action. In this article, we will explore the various options for watching the Tour de France, from live streaming on television or online, to following a live blog of the race, downloading an app to track the race, tuning into a radio broadcast of the event, and watching highlights and replays on YouTube.

Live Stream on TV or Online

The most straightforward way to watch the Tour de France is to tune in to a live stream of the event on television or online. In the United States, NBC Sports Network has exclusive rights to broadcast the Tour de France, so viewers will need to check their local listings to see when the race will be airing. There are also several online streaming services such as fuboTV, Hulu, and Sling TV that offer access to NBC Sports Network.

One of the benefits of watching the Tour de France on television or online is that viewers can get up-to-the-minute coverage of the race. This means that fans can keep track of their favorite riders and teams, as well as get real-time updates on the standings. Additionally, television and online broadcasts often feature commentators who provide insight and analysis into the race, making it easier for viewers to understand what’s going on. The downside is that these broadcasts may not be available in all areas, and they may require a subscription to a cable or streaming service.

Follow a Live Blog of the Race

Another option for viewing the Tour de France is to follow a live blog of the race. Popular blogs such as CyclingNews, VeloNews, and ProCyclingStats offer detailed coverage of the race, including live updates of the standings, interviews with riders, and analysis of the tactics used by teams. These blogs also often have sections dedicated to the history of the Tour de France, as well as stories about the culture and people associated with the event. Following a live blog is a great way to stay informed about the race without having to watch a live stream.

The benefit of following a live blog is that it allows fans to get a more in-depth look at the race. Additionally, these blogs are usually free to access, so viewers don’t have to worry about subscribing to any services. The downside is that live blogs may not provide as much real-time coverage of the race as television or online broadcasts.

Download an App to Track the Race

There are also several apps available for tracking the Tour de France, such as the official Tour de France app, Velonlive, and Cyclist Tracker. These apps allow users to follow the race in real-time, track their favorite riders and teams, and get up-to-date information on the standings. Additionally, some apps offer features such as virtual reality views of the race, 3D models of the course, and interactive maps that show the location of riders and teams.

The benefit of using an app to track the Tour de France is that users can get detailed information about the race without having to watch a live stream or follow a blog. Additionally, these apps are usually free to download and use, so viewers don’t have to worry about subscriptions or fees. The downside is that some of these apps may not be available in all areas, and they may require a strong internet connection to work properly.

Tune into a Radio Broadcast of the Event

For those who want to listen to the Tour de France while they are on the go, tuning into a radio broadcast is a great option. Popular radio stations such as BBC Radio 5 Live and France Bleu offer live coverage of the race, as well as commentary and analysis from experts. Additionally, some stations offer podcasts of the race, which can be downloaded and listened to at any time.

The benefit of listening to a radio broadcast of the Tour de France is that it allows viewers to follow the race without having to watch a live stream or read a blog. Additionally, radio broadcasts are usually free to access, so viewers don’t have to worry about subscribing to any services. The downside is that radio broadcasts may not provide as much detail about the race as television or online broadcasts.

Watch Highlights and Replays on YouTube

For those who want to catch up on the Tour de France after it’s over, there are plenty of videos available on YouTube. Popular channels such as Redbull TV and Global Cycling Network offer highlights and replays of the race, as well as interviews with riders and analysis from experts. Additionally, some channels offer behind-the-scenes looks at the race, giving viewers a unique perspective on the event.

The benefit of watching highlights and replays on YouTube is that viewers can catch up on the race whenever they want. Additionally, these videos are usually free to access, so viewers don’t have to worry about subscriptions or fees. The downside is that highlights and replays may not provide as much real-time coverage of the race as television or online broadcasts.

Conclusion

The Tour de France is one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, and for those who can’t make it out to France for the race, there are still plenty of ways to follow along with the action. From live streaming on television or online, to following a live blog of the race, downloading an app to track the race, tuning into a radio broadcast of the event, and watching highlights and replays on YouTube, there are plenty of options for viewers to choose from. No matter which method viewers choose, they are sure to have an enjoyable experience watching the Tour de France.