UCI tightens tech regs for the Tour

New rules aim to prevent teams from turning up with unannounced, prototype tech

- Joe Baker

All teams competing at this year’s Tour de France, and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, will have to disclose all “critical equipment” they plan to use prior to the race start under new rules implemented by cycling’s international governing body, the UCI.

Teams that fail to meet the UCI’s new rules face penalties, from fines between CHF 5,000-100,000 (£4,470-£89,400) to disqualification. The ‘Road Equipment Registration Procedure’ is outlined in a 17-page document which went live on the UCI’s website on 24 April.

Framesets, wheels, handlebars, time trial base bars and extensions, clothing, and helmets – all considered to be “critical equipment” – have to be specifically approved for use at the sport’s biggest race.

The real headache for mechanics and soigneurs though, was the deadline: 1 June for the Tour de France, and 17 June for the Tour de France Femmes.

This is the first time the UCI has brought in specific regulations for the Tour, and the ruling now sits closer in line with the Olympics, where equipment also must be registered ahead of competition.