The first ever L'Etape Greece by Tour de France Presented by Skoda

In the 1st L'Étape Greece, more than 650 men and women cyclists from all over the world tested their endurance on the track, following a demanding circular route (The Race 150km or The Ride 75km) around the birthplace of the Olympic Games with the magnificent nature of the western Peloponnese as a backdrop. The pioneering cyclists pushed their limits, combining physical and mental endurance, speed, strategy and, of course, passion for cycling. In this effort, a decisive contribution was made by the 1o0 volunteers who encouraged them during the route and contributed to the smooth and safe conduct of the great cycling event in accordance with the high global standards of the Tour de France.

Western Greece and the birthplace of the Olympic Games as hosting territory

Along with the cyclists, the site of Ancient Olympia was also a big winner. "The experience of L'Étape Greece was unique for all of us. The Olympic Earth was associated with a top sporting event that was completed with great success and paves new ways for the further promotion of cycling and cycling tourism in Western Greece." In his turn, Mr. Dimitris Nikolakopoulos, Vice-Regional Governor of Sports, Volunteering and Olympism, added: "Wonderful cycling moments, where else, in the birthplace of sport and culture! L'Étape Greece by Tour de France is hosted for the first time in Ancient Olympia and is here to stay. It is a truly magical experience. Congratulations to the organizers and the competitors! We are looking forward to the next big event in our country".

Skoda, Tour de France Green jersey sponsor, Presenting Partner of the event

Mr. Manos Drakotos, Sales & Marketing Director SKODA of Kosmocar highlighted the close and long-standing relationship of the company with the Tour de France: "The history of Skoda is inextricably linked to cycling since the foundation of the company, which continues in the most practical way even today. Since 2004, when Skoda became the official vehicle partner of the Tour de France, dozens of Skoda vehicles have been on the front line of cycling's premier race. L'Étape Greece by Tour de France presented by SKODA gave us the opportunity to highlight Skoda's commitment to cycling in our country as Official Mobility Partner with the Skoda Enyaq iV, which was the official car of the event."

Didi The Devil to cheer the participants

Didi "The Devil", the mascot of the Tour de France worldwide, was also present at L'Étape Greece by Tour de France, as he has been following the cycling institution faithfully for 30 years! Wearing the characteristic red uniform of the devil, the German Didi Senft gave the start of the race together with the marshal, while he welcomed the athletes at the finish arch, giving the audience unique photographic moments.

Today, the Yellow Jersey belongs to Greece !

In The Race 150km, in the women's category, Nadia Synzanaki finished first, winning the coveted yellow jersey, which is the highest award in the world of cycling. Anastasia Tsourouktzi came second, followed by Eustratia Papadopoulou. All three athletes in the final trio also won their participation in L'Étape du Tour 2024. In the men's race, the yellow jersey was won by Skoda Cycling Team member George Bouglas, who finished first. Miltiadis Giannoutsos, Nikolaos Papagiannakis and Zisis Soulios followed in order of ranking, securing their participation in L'Étape du Tour 2024.

Stay tuned for the announcement of L'Etape Greece by Tour de France 2024 !

The great success of the 1st L'Étape Greece by Tour France from the first year sealed the importance of sports tourism for the development of the regions and for the strengthening of the community that shares unique moments and emotions through sport. At the same time, it foreshadows a bright future for the event which, as everything indicates, is expected to become an institution. See you at the 2nd L'Étape Greece by Tour de France, in 2024!