The 2026 Tour de France is already sparking heated debate, with a controversial proposal to "privatize" the iconic Alpe d'Huez climb. Former B&B Hotels manager Jerome Pineau suggests charging spectators on the upper slopes, arguing that the sport needs to evolve financially to survive the growing economic divide. He proposes a bold idea: "Let's privatize the last five kilometers of Alpe d'Huez, charge admission, have VIPs, and create a money-making event!" This proposal, while controversial, highlights a deeper issue in cycling's future funding. Pineau argues that it's not about luxury but about ensuring privately-backed teams can compete against state-funded giants. However, Groupama-FDJ boss Marc Madiot strongly opposes this idea, emphasizing the sport's open-door policy and the importance of free access. He warns that cycling risks losing its roots if it becomes a sport for the rich, with state-funded superteams dominating. The debate centers on the balance between preserving free access and creating a sustainable financial model. As the sport grapples with the challenge of maintaining its heritage while adapting to economic realities, the conversation around Alpe d'Huez becomes a microcosm of the broader struggle to ensure cycling's long-term viability.
