But let’s be honest, sometimes, the biggest head-turners aren’t just the riders in the Yellow Jersey. They’re the “überfans” – celebrities who flock to the Tour not only to witness the drama unfold but also to steal a little of the spotlight themselves (preferably in a photo op with the race leader).
We’ve rounded up the most dazzling stars to ever grace the Tour. Scroll down to meet the VIPs of the caravan.
Lino Ventura in 1980
French acting icon and former wrestler Lino Ventura paid a visit to Yellow Jersey wearer Bernard Hinault on July 9, 1980, in Pau. Ventura, a fixture in French cinema for his tough-guy roles, remained one of the country’s most respected actors, frequently attending major public events like the Tour.
Dustin Hoffman in 1984
On July 8, 1984, actor Dustin Hoffman joined the Tour caravan in Pau. Fresh off hits like “Tootsie”, Hoffman was one of Hollywood’s top stars, and his presence at the Tour was linked to a cycling film project that ultimately never came to fruition.
Alain Delon in 1987
Sporting a headband and a banana neck scarf, French film star Alain Delon visited the Tour on July 7, 1987, even patting cyclist Giuseppe Saronni on the back. A 1960s heartthrob turned film producer, Delon was then a mature star, still drawing public fascination with his charisma and legendary screen roles.
Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2003
During the 2003 stage between Narbonne and Toulouse, Arnold Schwarzenegger joined Lance Armstrong on the podium. At the time, “Schwarzy” was promoting “Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines” and was about to launch his political career as a candidate for Governor of California.
Robin Williams in 2004
A lifelong cycling enthusiast, Robin Williams was frequently spotted around the U.S. Postal Service team bus and even rode in the race director’s car. Williams, famous for his roles in “Good Will Hunting” and “Dead Poets Society”, was also a passionate cyclist who brought humour and warmth to every event he attended. Known for his boundless energy and love of adventure, he owned a vast collection of high-end bikes, many of which were auctioned for charity after his passing.
Jake Gyllenhaal in 2006
Actor Jake Gyllenhaal, a fitness devotee, was present at the 2006 Tour, seen chatting with Lance Armstrong outside the Discovery Channel team bus. Known for his roles in “Donnie Darko” and “Brokeback Mountain”, Gyllenhaal was becoming one of Hollywood’s most versatile and athletic actors.
Matthew McConaughey in 2009
Texas-born actor Matthew McConaughey is a Tour regular and an accomplished triathlete. In 2009, he was riding the wave of romantic comedy fame and often trained with Lance Armstrong. He and partner Camila Alves watched the Paris finale as Armstrong placed third.
Fernando Alonso in 2009
Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso greeted 2007 Tour winner Alberto Contador on July 4, 2009, in Monaco, after the 15 km individual time trial. Then a two-time F1 World Champion, Alonso was one of Spain’s most prominent athletes and a keen cycling enthusiast.
Ben Stiller in 2010
Ben Stiller arrived at the prologue in Rotterdam on July 3, 2010, with filmmaking in mind. Famous for hits like “Zoolander” and “Meet the Parents”, Stiller was exploring a documentary project about the Tour and even tested Armstrong’s bike minutes before a stage.
Cameron Diaz in 2010
Cameron Diaz made a splash in Bordeaux on July 23, 2010, promoting her film “Knight and Day”. Then at the height of her rom-com career, Diaz’s appearance at the Tour brought star power to the crowd gathered at the finish line.
Tom Cruise in 2010
Joining Cameron Diaz, Tom Cruise appeared on the Tour podium alongside Alberto Contador, who wore the Yellow Jersey that day. Cruise, a global star and Diaz’s co-star in “Knight and Day”, added even more celebrity buzz to the Tour that year.
Bill Walton in 2015
Former basketball star Bill Walton, known for his cycling passion, was honoured at the Tour of California’s “Chairman’s Ride” in 2015. The towering NBA legend and sports broadcaster often expressed his love for the Tour and his admiration for riders’ endurance.
John Kerry in 2017
Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, a committed cyclist, was spotted at the 2017 Tour and even helped save the Cannondale-Drapac team. A longtime fan, Kerry remained politically active and athletically driven, earning praise for his cycling form.
Prince Albert and Princess Charlene in 2020
On August 29, 2020, Monaco’s royal couple launched the Tour de France from Nice. Prince Albert, known for his support of sport, and Princess Charlene, a former Olympic swimmer, brought elegance and enthusiasm to the event. They later attended the women’s race, La Course, and celebrated on the podium.
Last but not least: George W. Bush, the 43rd U.S. president, is a dedicated cyclist who regularly rides around his Texas ranch. In the 2000s and beyond, Bush became known for his post-presidency fitness regime, and his rides with Lance Armstrong highlighted his love for endurance sports.
