The solidarity operation “one child, one bike” led by Century 21 is back on the occasion of the arrival of the Tour de France Femmes in Nice. Yesterday, six bicycles were handed over to children assisted by the Popular Aid of the Alpes-Maritimes. The bicycle has become the symbol of a solidarity that continues year after year.
A collective commitment was realized on Place Masséna. Sponsored by a legend of French cycling, Bernard Hinault, bicycles were given to six children on Sunday, August 9, 2026. “Involving children in the Tour de France is wonderful,” declared Benjamin Mondou, president of Century 21 Lafage Transactions. Project sponsor, the real estate network has been the partner of the Tour de France Men’s and Women’s since 2017.
The goal of this operation is to offer refurbished bicycles to children from low-income families, in partnership with local organizations. The collaboration between Popular Aid and Century 21 agencies is the result of a long-standing partnership. “We know Popular Aid well, every year we organize toy collections,” said Benjamin Mondou, president of Century 21.
During the final stage of the Tour de France Femmes, this project is the fruit of collaboration between enthusiasts of the Grand Loop and a local organization working for solidarity.
A call for collective mobilization
This initiative is able to change the daily lives of young beneficiaries. “Some children had never even had the opportunity to ride a bike,” said Hadjira Bendjeddou, director of Popular Aid of the Alpes-Maritimes. Once again, this 2026 edition welcomed six children equipped with a bicycle on the podium, under the benevolent gaze of spectators present. A few hours before the arrival of the riders, the joy of the children on the stage was unifying. “Today, they have a bicycle and it is a day that will be marked forever in their memory. Getting on the podium of the Tour de France is not permitted for everyone,” said the director of Popular Aid of the Alpes-Maritimes.
The lucky winners were chosen from among Popular Aid beneficiaries. Director Hadjira Bendjeddou announced selecting children aged 8 to 12 years old, based on the family’s financial situation. The “One child, one bike” operation took on full meaning with the participation of Popular Aid, whose daily action supports people in precarious situations. This initiative illustrates the importance of partnerships in favor of solidarity. With this project, Century 21 concretely extends the work of organizations: that of allowing children to access leisure activities, regardless of their means.
An operation that continues
“One child, one bike” has provided over 1,300 bicycles along the Tour de France route since its inception. Based in France, Century 21 collects bicycles in its numerous agencies. Collection is followed by restoration. “It is an action that is close to our hearts because we collect bicycles throughout the year,” said Benjamin Mondou. This initiative was inspired by the toy collection organized by the real estate network during the end-of-year holidays since 2013.
This initiative was organized in the cities traveled by the women’s peloton at each stage of the race. The intention of this operation is to invite children to take part in the excitement of the Tour de France.
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