Tour de France

The Tour de France is an annual multiple stage bicycle race primarily held in France,while also occasionally making passes through nearby countries. The race was first organized in 1903 to increase sales for the newspaper L'Auto; which is currently run by the Amaury Sport Organisation. The race has been held annually since its first edition in 1903 except when it was stopped for the two World Wars. As the Tour gained prominence and popularity the race was lengthened and its reach began to extend around the globe. Participation expanded from a primarily French field, as riders from all over the world began to participate in the race each year. The 2017 Tour de France starts in Germany for the first time since its 1987 West German Grand Depart. A 14km time trial opens the race in Düsseldorf with stage 2 to also start in the German city and finally finish along the Champs Elysées in Paris.