The Jerseys
The Tour de France podium ceremony is more than just a moment of victory; it’s a celebration of tradition, heritage, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
As the final stage concludes and the riders ascend the steps to the podium, they are greeted by the roar of the crowd and the anticipation of claiming one of cycling’s most coveted prizes: the Tour de France jerseys.
The Story Behind the Jerseys
Each jersey represents not just the achievements of the current wearer but also a legacy stretching back over a century. The iconic Maillot Jaune—the yellow jersey—has been a symbol of leadership since it was first introduced in 1919. The color was chosen by Tour founder Henri Desgrange to match the pages of the race's sponsoring newspaper, L’Auto, which was printed on yellow paper. Since then, the yellow jersey has become synonymous with the rider who holds the overall lead, embodying the endurance, strategy, and skill required to conquer the grueling three-week journey through France.
But it’s not just the Maillot Jaune that tells a story. The green jersey, or Maillot Vert, celebrates the fastest sprinter in the peloton, rewarding the rider who has accumulated the most points through sprints during each stage. Introduced in 1953, it signifies explosive speed and tactical prowess.
The polka-dot jersey—adorned with its striking red dots—is awarded to the King of the Mountains. Since 1975, this jersey has been a tribute to those who excel in the lung-busting climbs of the Alps and Pyrenees. It’s a nod to those who take on the challenge of gravity and emerge victorious.
Lastly, the white jersey represents the best young rider, highlighting the promise of future stars. It serves as a reminder that the Tour is not only about crowning champions of today but also about showcasing the talents that will shape the sport’s future.
Santini: The Makers of Champions’ Jerseys
The privilege of wearing these iconic jerseys carries immense weight, and the responsibility of crafting them falls to Santini, a brand synonymous with cycling excellence. As Santini describes:
"Being on the shoulders of the best riders in the world is a mission for us at Santini, and it’s a responsibility we take to heart. Each time a champion wears our jersey—whether it’s the yellow jersey of the Tour de France or the UCI World Champion jersey—we understand that we’re not just dressing an athlete; we’re wrapping them in a symbol of their hard work, dedication, and the dreams of countless fans."
With every stitch and seam, Santini strives to create garments that do justice to the champions who wear them. Employing the latest technology in fabric innovation, they ensure breathability, flexibility, and performance to withstand the most grueling conditions. But it’s not just about the technical aspects; it’s about the deeper meaning behind each jersey.
"These iconic jerseys tell a story—it is the story of the rider wearing it, as well as the legendary champions of the past who donned it before them. It encapsulates the fatigue endured to achieve ultimate victory, the teamwork behind the scenes, and every single training session, race, crash, defeat, and win that led to this moment."
Santini collaborates closely with riders and teams, using their insights to refine each design, ensuring that the garments not only represent the rider’s current journey but also uphold the values of sportsmanship and perseverance. Each jersey is a testament to the sacrifices made, the challenges faced, and the dreams realized.
To learn more about Santini’s craftsmanship and their partnership with Thomson Bike Tours as the official cycling kit partner, watch this behind-the-scenes video
A Celebration of Victory
When the podium ceremony concludes and the crowd’s cheers begin to fade, the jerseys return to the heart of the race—ready for another chapter to be written. The yellow, green, polka dot, and white jerseys may be claimed by individual riders, but they belong to the sport itself, representing a lineage of legends, a testament to human tenacity, and a source of inspiration for generations to come.
As Santini eloquently puts it:
"Every time we see a rider cross the finish line in our jersey, it reinforces our mission. It’s a reminder that we are part of a larger narrative—one filled with triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments."
The Tour de France podium ceremony, then, is more than just a prize-giving event. It is the culmination of hard-fought battles, an affirmation of excellence, and a promise that the legacy of these jerseys will endure inspiring future generations to chase their own dreams.
