1919 - The First Yellow Jersey

About

The 1919 Tour de France marked a significant moment in cycling history with the introduction of the yellow jersey. This iconic symbol was first worn by Eugène Christophe during the race, specifically from Stage 10 onwards. The jersey was created to clearly identify the race leader, replacing the previous green armband. The choice of yellow was inspired by the color of the pages of L'Auto-Vélo, the newspaper that sponsored the race. Christophe, although initially hesitant, became the first to don this jersey, which has since become synonymous with leadership in the Tour de France. The introduction of the yellow jersey was a practical solution to help spectators easily recognize the race leader, especially in the crowded and chaotic environment of the post-war era. The jersey was initially made of wool, which became heavy when wet, but it marked the beginning of a tradition that would evolve over time. The yellow jersey has become an enduring symbol of excellence in cycling, with its design and materials adapting to modern needs. It remains a prestigious honor for cyclists to wear during the Tour de France, symbolizing their position as the race leader.