Tour de France: Yellow Jersey Toast

Every year since 1975 (except 2024), the Tour de France has finished on the Champs-Élysées. By tradition, the yellow jersey leader serves champagne to rivals on the final ceremonial ride before the sprint finish. It's the only race where drinking while cycling is part of the ritual.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Claim Your Spot on the Champs Adventure · Free

   The final stage is free to watch from the Champs-Élysées barriers. Arrive by noon for the evening finish (typically 5-6pm). The peloton makes 8 laps of a 6.8km circuit. Position yourself near the Arc de Triomphe for the most iconic shots. The ceremonial champagne happens in the early kilometers before Paris, but you'll see the sprint finish.

   Backup: VIP grandstands are available (from €200) if you want guaranteed seats.

   Log Memory
2. 2 Watch for the Champagne Photo History · Free

   Earlier in the stage (broadcast on giant screens), watch for the yellow jersey serving champagne to rivals. This tradition started in 1975 when the Champs-Élysées finish began. The leader is, by convention, not challenged for their lead on this final day. The peloton laughs, celebrates, and drinks before the sprint finale.

   Backup: Record the broadcast on your phone - the champagne moment happens outside Paris.

   Log Memory
3. 3 Champagne Toast on the Champs Wine · Price: moderate

   After the finish, walk to a café on the Champs-Élysées and order champagne. Fouquet's (99 Avenue des Champs-Élysées) is iconic, or Le Deauville for something less touristy. Toast to the yellow jersey - whoever it is. You've witnessed one of sport's greatest traditions.

   Backup: If cafés are packed, buy a bottle from Nicolas wine shop (several on the Champs) and drink at Jardin des Tuileries.

   Log Memory