Tour de France organisers have announced that the race’s final stage has been shortened after devastating wildfires continued to spread across southwest France, forcing authorities to redirect emergency resources to the affected regions.
The decision was confirmed on Saturday after France’s Interior Ministry revealed that police officers assigned to provide security for the race would instead be deployed to support firefighting and evacuation efforts.
Final Stage Route Revised
Race organisers said the change was made in a spirit of national solidarity with communities battling one of France’s worst wildfire emergencies in recent years.
The final stage was originally scheduled to cover 133 kilometres, beginning in Thoiry, west of Paris. Under the revised plan, riders will now start directly on the Champs-Élysées, complete several additional laps along the iconic avenue and then join the traditional Montmartre circuit.
The updated route reduces the stage distance to 89 kilometres, allowing the event to conclude in Paris while easing pressure on emergency services.
Security Forces Redeployed
The decision follows an announcement by the French Interior Ministry that officers initially assigned to Tour de France security duties would be reassigned to areas severely affected by the wildfires.
Authorities said additional personnel are urgently needed to assist with evacuations, protect communities and support firefighters battling the rapidly spreading blazes.
Massive Wildfires Continue to Spread
The wildfires have caused widespread destruction across the Gironde and Landes regions, particularly around Arcachon Bay near Bordeaux and Biscarrosse.
According to French officials, more than 36,000 hectares of forest and woodland have already been destroyed, making the disaster one of the country’s largest wildfire crises in recent years.
Nearly 200,000 People Evacuated
Emergency authorities have evacuated nearly 200,000 residents and tourists, many from popular holiday destinations, as flames continue to threaten homes, businesses and natural areas.
High temperatures, prolonged drought and strong winds have made firefighting efforts extremely difficult, allowing the fires to spread rapidly across southwest France.
Tour to Finish in Paris
Despite the emergency, organisers confirmed that the Tour de France will still conclude in Paris, preserving its traditional finish while adapting to the extraordinary circumstances.
Officials said the revised route balances the importance of completing the world’s most prestigious cycling race with the urgent need to support communities and emergency services responding to the ongoing wildfire disaster.
