After reading the title you may think that the news is old but no; it is July 2024 and France requested to wear masks in certain areas after a series of coronavirus cases emerged at the famous Tour de France cycling race.
Organisers are introducing the measure for the remainder of the event, which runs until July 21.
Masks are mandatory in areas with contact to the riders, such as after the finish line, the team bus parking areas and mixed zones where the media can talk to the riders.
Riders who have abandoned the race due to the virus include Tom Pidcock (INEOS Grenadiers), Juan Ayuso (UAE Team Emirates), and Michael Mørkøv (Astana-Qazaqstan). Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers) remains in the Tour despite testing positive, as the rules currently allow.
Since 2020, the Tour de France has consistently implemented COVID-19 measures, and in 2024, these practices are being upheld, tho a bit late into the race, which now enters its final week.
From 26th July to 11th August, France will next host the 2024 Summer Olympics. The Paris 2024 will feature a global gathering of athletes. We wonder if there will also be any Covid-19 restrictions in this tournament.
