Tour de France

The most notable of all road races is the Tour de France, which began in 1903 out of a dispute between rival newspapers.

The first race consisted of only 250 miles (400 km) with six stages. It has since evolved into 20 stages that total to over 2050 miles (3300 km) with a finish line in Paris, France. The race is noted for its long stages that include steep mountainous climbs and fast downhills.