Making (and not making) the Tour de France squad

 (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images for AEG)

The Tour de France is cycling’s biggest stage, and it is our only event that really transcends the sport. It is an international phenomenon, a celebration of summer, culture, scenery and arguably one of the most demanding physical and mental competitions.

Thus, every cyclist wants to be selected for his team’s Tour de France squad. But not everyone can go. For every team, the goal is to select the most prepared riders, so Tour selection is complex and multifaceted. Every director has riders who they are closest to, and subtle allegiances can factor into the final selection.

Read the full story over at VeloNews: http://www.velonews.com/2018/06/news/bookwalter-journal-making-not-making-tour-de-france-squad_469851