The world of women's cycling is eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the itinerary of the first edition of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift on 14 October at the Palais des Congrès in Paris. The eight stages scheduled from 24 to 31 July 2022 will be announced by Marion Rousse, who has been appointed director of the event by Amaury Sport Organisation. The 2012 French cycling champion, who retired from professional competition in 2015, became a consultant for France Télévisions, and since 2019 has also taken part in race organisation as the deputy director of the Tour de la Provence.
Marion Rousse, Director of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift:
"When I was a little girl, I watched the Tour de France on television with admiration, and when I started my career, I suspected that I would never have the opportunity to race in it. So, of course, I was very proud to be asked to take charge of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, especially because we want to do our utmost to make it a dream for little girls to participate. Women's cycling has come a long way in recent years, partly thanks to A.S.O., but it still lacked a reference stage race with real media coverage. Now that I have accepted this mission, I intend to invest myself so that it becomes a ritual among the public... and for a long time because this is not about launching a race for two or three editions."
Christian Prudhomme, Director of the Tour de France:
"If the event is to become the premier race for women's cycling, it was obvious to call on the best ambassador of this sport, known and appreciated by the general public as well as the experts. And her immediate enthusiasm to join us confirms the momentum behind the creation of the event."
