The Tour de France in 80 photos

Le Tour visits the towns and countrysides of France each summer. To celebrate the organisation of its 100th edition, for a four-month period it will be welcomed to the French Senate, whose home, the Palais de la République, is the best symbol of the country's different territories. Today, Jean-Pierre Bel, President of the Senate, and Christian Prudhomme, Director of the Tour de France, unveiled the 80 images that will be on show until 27th July on the railings of the Jardin du Luxembourg. Over the last few years, this venue has become a stage of reference in the world of photography. Naturally, it has opened itself to the most photographed event in the history of sport, because tens of thousands of passes have been distributed to professional photographers over 99 editions.

Among the vast array of millions of images held by French sports newspaper L'Equipe, the selection available for viewing by passers-by until the end of Le Tour 2013 shows the agony and ecstasy of the riders as well as the links maintained with a watching public that is constantly being renewed. More importantly, as Christian Prudhomme explains, it pays witness to “the unique relationship that exists between Le Tour and France, the biggest race in the world and the theatre in which it is played out. The roads, landscapes, mountains and towns of France are essential ingredients for the success of this race enjoyed by television viewers from all over the world. As such, we are once again honoured to enjoy the enthusiasm of France's elected representatives who have provided us with a prestigious showcase”.