In celebration of World Bicycle Day on June 3, 2026, the Tour de France’s “L’Avenir à Vélo” program is encouraging everyone to embrace cycling. This initiative aims to inspire individuals to incorporate cycling into their daily lives through promotion, education, and solidarity.
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in April 2018, World Bicycle Day recognizes the bicycle’s uniqueness, longevity, and versatility as a simple, affordable, reliable, clean, and environmentally sustainable mode of transport.
Beyond its renowned racing heritage, the Tour de France has become a global ambassador for cycling culture. Through the “Cycle City” label, over 200 cities worldwide have been recognized for their commitment to developing cycling infrastructure and promoting cycling as a means of daily transport, recreation, and sport. This initiative evaluates cities based on their efforts to encourage cycling, including infrastructure development, cyclist safety, and support programs. (letourfemmes.fr)
In addition to urban initiatives, the Tour de France actively promotes cycling education. The “Les P’tits Vélos” program has taught 700,000 children to ride since 2018, supporting the French government’s “Savoir Rouler à Vélo” program. During the Tour, “Les Ateliers du Tour” conducts interactive workshops at Fan Parks across 16 race days, covering bike handling, road safety, and basic maintenance skills. The organization also hosts balance bike races and donates around 1,300 balance bikes annually to schools and community centers, helping young children develop their cycling skills.
The Tour’s social impact extends globally through bicycle donation programs. Since 2018, over 7,200 bikes have been given to children with limited cycling access, including partnerships with “Secours populaire français” for annual distribution events. Collaboration with the South African organization, Qhubeka, has funded more than 2,000 bicycles for school children, demonstrating how professional cycling can create tangible benefits for communities far from the race routes while fostering cycling access and education worldwide.
As we celebrate World Bicycle Day, let’s embrace the joy and benefits of cycling. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to the sport, today is the perfect day to ride your bike and experience the freedom it offers.