Riders at the Tour de France Femmes will undergo additional clothing checks before the upcoming stage on Tuesday, following allegations that some competitors might be using extra padding in their bras to gain an aerodynamic edge.

Race organizers confirmed these inspections in a recent communique after concerns were raised by teams about padded bras enhancing airflow during the stage four time trial. The communique specified:

• Riders must complete final checks before the race (including bikes and outfits) at least 10 minutes prior to their respective start times.
• There will be a focus on compliance with article 1.3.032 of the UCI regulations, which addresses non-essential elements and clothing or accessories that could alter riders’ morphology.

According to the UCI, non-essential elements are defined as anything that does not serve a specific purpose related to clothing or protection, or is not strictly necessary for functionality.

The time trial spans 21km from Gevrey-Chambertin to Dijon. Currently, Sigrid Haugset of Uno-X Mobility holds the yellow jersey after her victory in stage three on Monday.

The women's race unfolds as Tadej Pogacar recently secured his fifth title in the men's Tour de France last month, joining legends like Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, and Miguel Indurain. Reflecting on his achievement, Pogacar expressed:

Every victory is really special. Seven Tours already and seven times on the podium, five wins, it’s something that you wouldn’t even maybe write in a storybook and it’s just unbelievable for me.

Pogacar has also announced his participation in the Vuelta a Espana for the first time in seven years, aiming to become the ninth male rider to win the general classification in all three of cycling’s major tours.