The UCI has, at the request of several teams, loosened the new rules regarding feed zones. Starting this year, it is no longer allowed to provide riders with new bottles and energy gels anywhere along the course except in designated feed zones.
The new regulations were introduced not only to improve safety but also to keep the playing field level between teams. Not all squads are able to place soigneurs with bottles and spare wheels after every cobblestone section or climb.
The system now relies on fixed feed zones, Every thirty to forty kilometers, the race organization designates areas where teams can supply their riders with fresh provisions. According to the rules, these zones must not be located on a descent.
In practice, this rule is not always respected, several team directors told WielerFlits. The first feed zone is often exactly at forty kilometers, and for the next ones they add another forty kilometers. Sometimes these zones end up in very unfortunate spots, while spots two or three kilometers further would be much more suitable.
Riders who miss a feed can drop back to the team car for a new bottle, but because the pace in this Tour is often so high, this is not always an option. As a result, riders often end up thirsty on the bike. This was also the case during the Critérium du Dauphiné, the team directors confirm.
Ahead of the Tour de France, they jointly called upon the UCI to relax the rules. The UCI jury has responded accordingly. Besides the pre-designated feed zones, it is now also allowed to hand out bottles on categorized climbs.
On climbs up to second category, this is permitted up to five hundred meters from the summit. On first-category and hors catégorie climbs, it is allowed until the final kilometer.
