Ivan Rovny wired for communications during the recent Eroica race in Italy (Image credit: Bettini Photo)
Director of the Tour de France, Christian Prudhomme, is considering the idea of banning race radios in the 2008 Tour de France. The Frenchman might prohibit the use of the devices that allow for rider-director sportif communication in the mountains stages.
He said to Belgium's Het Nieuwsblad that he is studying "the idea of banning the race radio in some of the stages of the Tour, maybe in the mountains [stages]."
The International Cycling Union (UCI) announced on February 15 that it formed a "working group" to "treat the question of radio transmissions and coaching during competitions. In particular, it will consider the use of earphones." It decided to go ahead and ban the devices for Under 23 races. The issue, and its regards to top-tier professional races is expected at UCI Management Committee meeting in Copenhagen this June, while more information is expected from Prudhomme as the Tour nears.
