A spectacular tradition, preceding the cyclist peloton, the caravans have been on the Tour since June 29. And it was for the penultimate stage and the final stage in Nice that we were able to meet them and board one of them.
The Tour de France, this emblematic cycling event, is not limited solely to a high-level sports competition. Beyond the riders and their feats, it is a real celebration that unfolds on the roads. At the heart of this celebration, the advertising caravan plays a central role, animating the stages and creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. We tested it for you.
A rooted tradition
Since its creation in 1930, the advertising caravan has become an inseparable element of the Tour de France. It was in Nice that we found them. In a huge hall at the Exhibition Palace, more than 150 vehicles bringing together several brands are in place. Vehicles decorated in the colors of sponsors, with inside goodies, samples and other gifts, transforming each stage into a true traveling carnival.
Among the people working on these floats, Maëline Rivallain, on the Tour for the 6th time, whom we met during the penultimate day. After four years with Sodexo she was back but with Le Gaulois this time. It’s a family affair for her. Her dad has been working on the Tour for ten years, but also her cousin, her brother and her uncle. “For Le Gaulois, there are eight floats, five of which are chicken-themed. There are two of us per float except the first one where there are four people. There’s the driver and the distributor. We all follow each other, there’s always an order to respect”. Inside the floats are small goodies: bicycle-shaped bottle openers, cuddly toys and many others.
The caravan is above all a parade of extravagant and creative vehicles. For children and adults alike, it’s a moment of joy and wonder, a true visual and sound celebration.
An atmosphere on the roads but not only
The Tour de France is also a human adventure for the caravaneers. These latter, actors in the advertising caravan, share unique moments and form a tight-knit community. The party begins well before their parade. While everyone is gathered in this hall cleaning and preparing the caravans. Where there is a mixture of excitement and concentration so that everything is perfect. Everyone brings their positive energy to start this day.
The long-awaited moment, “the caravaneers’ dance”. Perfectly symbolizing this festive atmosphere that will continue throughout the day. Improvised and rhythmic, releasing the pressure of the final days of the Tour. A true choreography of good humor. Before taking to the road for the final stage, the Miss and Mister Caravan election takes place and concludes with thanks. So at 12:15 pm the departure is launched for the caravaneers. Each one sets off in the race with us aboard Senseo, a Tour de France partner for twelve years. For logistical reasons, the departure is from Nice to Monaco before returning to Nice.
On the Nice-Monaco route, the five Senseo floats as well as all the other partners are already setting the mood: microphones, speakers. The arrival in Monaco is to music, raised arms accompany their little routines. Once underway, the distribution begins. The animators of the vehicles throw out thousands of gifts, ranging from key rings to caps, including socks. They also create bonds with different spectators, bringing happiness and smiles.
Spectators, positioned hours in advance to get the best spots, stretch their arms, shout and compete enthusiastically to grab these goodies. This connection between the caravan and the public creates a warm and friendly atmosphere, where sporting competition is not just a moment of stress. It’s also a moment of sharing and pleasure.
The roads of the Tour de France are a spectacle in themselves. Hundreds of thousands of spectators line the route, transforming the stages into an immense open-air stage. Camping chairs and tents border the roads, decorated with flags and banners in support of the riders. Families, friends and enthusiasts gather, sharing picnics and moments of conviviality.
Some follow the Tour over several stages, others take advantage of its passage near their home to live this unique moment. Encouragement flows, applause rings out, and each passage of the caravan is met with cheers.
A beautiful arrival
It is 2:45 pm when the caravans arrive in Nice in an incomparable atmosphere, where the spirit of the Tour takes on its full meaning. The sun of the Côte d’Azur reveals itself, adding a touch of magic to this moment. The terraces of cafes and restaurants are full, everyone seeking the best view to not miss any of the passage.
The roads are lined with spectators who are taking advantage of the event. The entire city vibrates with enthusiasm and passion for the Tour de France. Music, singing and cries of joy ring out everywhere, creating an unparalleled festive atmosphere. Showing that the Tour de France without the caravans would not be the Tour de France. Especially alongside Yannick, distributor on the Senseo caravan, who “loves his job” and who shared with us this vibrant and joyful atmosphere.
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