The world of women's cycling is abuzz with excitement, yet a glaring issue persists: the lack of comprehensive live coverage for major races. This oversight, as highlighted by Orla Chennaoui, a veteran presenter in the field, is more than just an inconvenience; it's a disservice to the athletes and the growing fan base.
The Growing Discontent
Chennaoui, with her decade-long experience, has witnessed the evolution of women's cycling, and the current media attention is a testament to its rising popularity. However, the limited live television coverage, especially for events like the Tour de France Femmes, is a frustrating reality. Despite the sport's dynamic and dramatic nature, as Chennaoui aptly describes it, key moments, like Demi Vollering's crash in Stage 3, go unseen by the wider audience.
A Missed Opportunity
The 2026 Tour de France Femmes, with only three out of nine stages fully broadcast, is a prime example of this issue. The Cyclists' Alliance, a voice for professional cyclists, echoes Chennaoui's sentiments, pointing out that crucial parts of races, including significant climbs and strategic attacks, are missed due to this limited coverage. This not only affects the viewers' experience but also undermines the athletes' efforts and achievements.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Interestingly, France Televisions, one of the key broadcasters, has seen a significant increase in viewership for women's cycling events. With a 40% jump in viewers from 2024 to 2025, it's evident that the demand for more coverage is there. Médiamétrie figures further support this, showing a higher audience share for the 2026 race's Grand Depart compared to the previous year, despite a slight dip in overall viewers.
A Call for Action
The Cyclists' Alliance and Chennaoui are united in their demand for full coverage, especially for the premier event in women's cycling. They argue that with the sport's growing popularity, partial coverage is no longer acceptable. Chennaoui goes a step further, calling out the race organizers, ASO, and France TV, for their decision to limit live coverage, especially for events like Paris-Roubaix Femmes, which she describes as "a huge step backwards."
The Impact and Way Forward
The lack of coverage has broader implications. It sends a message that women's racing is not as valued or important as men's, which can deter potential fans and sponsors. As Chennaoui says, "They're still doing a disservice to women's racing, and we can't then say the audience isn't there. We can. It is there." The solution, as The Cyclists' Alliance suggests, is simple: full coverage for all stages, starting in 2027. This would not only benefit the athletes and fans but also help further grow the sport and its audience.
In conclusion, the push for equal coverage in women's cycling is a necessary step towards recognizing and celebrating the sport's growth and potential. It's time for the organizers to catch up with the demand and provide the full coverage that this dynamic and exciting sport deserves.
