, winner of the first edition of La Course in 2014 In 2013, professional cyclists
Kathryn Bertine,
Marianne Vos and
Emma Pooley and professional triathlete
Chrissie Wellington formed an activist group called
Le Tour Entier (“the whole tour”), to petition ASO to launch a women's Tour de France. Following substantial media coverage, and a petition signed by over 100,000 people, ASO launched La Course by Tour de France in 2014. The race would be held in conjunction with the Tour de France, with the first edition taking place as a one-day race on the Champs-Élysées in advance of the final stage of the men's race. with Vos stating that the race would be a "fantastic showcase after last year's
World Championships] and the
2012 Olympics". In subsequent years, the race took place in a variety of locations such as
Pau,
Col de la Colombière and
Col d'Izoard in conjunction with the men's race, as the ASO argued that this was the "best way to shine a light on female cycling". The race was initially praised for the exposure gained by 'sharing the stage' with the Tour de France, with sponsors welcoming the visibility of the Champs-Élysées, and live TV coverage in conjunction with the Tour de France.
Criticism However, the races were criticised by riders, teams and the media. Some felt that the race was an 'after thought' and were overshadowed by the men's race. The 2017 edition was specifically criticised for a lack of facilities for riders and teams, no support to get from the Col d'Izoard to Marseille, as well as issues regarding the
pursuit time trial format in Marseille. Riders noted that the stages weren't hard enough for the professional peloton, with former cyclist & commentator
Joanna Rowsell stating that "We need mountain climbs, flat stages, time trials and a Champs-Elysees finish". The race was also criticised for not being a "full Tour de France", with campaigner
Kathryn Bertine stating her disappointment that the race had not evolved into a multi day stage race.
Replacement by Tour de France Femmes In June 2021, ASO announced that the
Tour de France Femmes – a multi day stage race – would take place for the first time in 2022. This new 8 day race took place following the Tour de France, replacing La Course. The Tour de France Femmes has been highly praised by the public, media, teams and riders – with large crowds and high TV viewership. == Locations ==