You know those moments when mountain biking and road cycling collide?
Well, here’s probably the most spectacular example – mountain bikers literally jumping over the Tour de France peloton.
2003 – The OG Jump: Dave Watson’s Bold (and Painful) First
Back in 2003, Canadian rider Dave Watson decided to make history in the most dramatic way possible.
Video: The Original Jump Over The Tour Peloton
During Stage 8 on the legendary Col du Galibier, he launched himself off a 45-foot cliff over the unsuspecting peloton.
The landing? Well, let’s just say it wasn’t exactly textbook. Watson crashed down a rocky slope, though somehow walked away with just minor injuries.
Talk about commitment to the send!
2013 – The First “Stick”: Romain Marandet Shows How It’s Done
It took a decade, but in 2013, French rider Romain Marandet finally showed everyone how to land the jump properly.
As race leader Chris Froome pedaled below, Marandet cleared the peloton with style and actually stuck the landing.
Alexis Bosson (2018)
Alexis Bosson’s jump during Stage 10 of the 2018 Tour was particularly noteworthy for its perfect timing and execution.
Video: POV jump over the Tour De France
He launched himself over the peloton as they wound their way through the French countryside.
The POV video makes it look a lot easier than it actually was.
2019 and 2024 – Modern Day Madness: Valentin Anouilh Goes Big
If there’s a current king of Tour jumping, it’s probably Valentin Anouilh. This French mountain biker has turned it into an art form, with successful jumps in both 2019 and 2024.
His 2024 jump during Stage 11 was particularly nuts – we’re talking about clearing 8 meters horizontally while soaring 12 meters high.
That’s like jumping over a three-story building with hundreds of pro cyclists underneath!
The Unofficial Tour Tradition Nobody Asked For (But Some Viewers Seem To Love)
Let’s be clear, the UCI definitely didn’t sign off on mountain bikers launching themselves over the peloton.
Some folk don’t seem to worry about it too much, and think it’s just a bit of harmless fun.
Then there’s others, who aren’t so keen…
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What are your thoughts?
If you enjoyed this peek into one of cycling’s wildest traditions, why not share it with that friend who’s always trying to convince everyone that road cycling is “boring”? 👇
