Women’s Cycling: Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift 2026
By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
It has been reported that riders in the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift are having their clothing checked to prevent attempts to achieve "aerodynamic gains". In other words, an unfair competitive advantage.
For example, padding in their bras which could gaining them one second per kilometre.
Other items have also been known to be inserted into a skinsuit around the chest area to smooth airflow around the body.
Riders are being subjecting to final checks on their clothing or other items no later than 10 minutes before their respective start times.
The organisers of the event have stated that:
"Particular attention will be paid to compliance with article 1.3.032 of the UCI regulations, including non-essential elements and clothing or other items/accessories worn by a rider (including but not limited to helmets, glasses, shoes or in-race communication devices) which could modify riders' morphology."
Riders who breach the rules face disqualification from a race and a fine of around €230.
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘
