Share

2017 Tour de France begins in Dusseldorf

Dsseldorf - Frenchman Elie Gesbert was the first rider on the road as the 2017 Tour de France began in rainy Dusseldorf on Saturday. 

The 22-year-old former French junior champion was the first to tackle the opening stage 14km time-trial in Germany, setting off at 15:15. 

Reigning champion Chris Froome will be last off at 18: 32 as he bids for a fourth Tour crown.

In damp conditions, 198 riders signed on for the start of the 104th edition of the world's greatest bike race. 

Although fans with colourful brollies crowded around the start and finish areas, further along the course the lack of supporters was disappointing at a race that usually brings out hoards thronging every inch of vantage points to watch the action. 

German four-time world time-trial champion Tony Martin is the favourite to win the opening stage and wear the yellow jersey in his homeland on Sunday's second stage.


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE