Dirty Feet

Focusing on the gritty beginnings of the Tour de France, the narrative explores the blue-collar roots of the race and its founder, Henri Desgrange. It reveals how Desgrange's concern for the hygiene of his rugged cyclists led him to publicly shame those who failed to clean up after enduring the grueling, muddy stages. This historical perspective sheds light on the evolution of one of cycling's most prestigious events, highlighting the challenges faced by early competitors.