Mont Ventoux: Romain Bardet hospitalized after fall as Tour de France Femmes riders eye the legendary climb

Former professional cyclist Romain Bardet was hospitalized after a severe fall during a family ride on Mont Ventoux in Provence, France. The accident was described as unusually violent and required immediate medical care; specific details of his injuries have not been released.

The same mountain will feature prominently in the 2026 Tour de France Femmes. Riders such as Demi Vollering, Juliette Berthet and other members of the peloton spoke about the climb’s mythic status, recalling personal memories of earlier ascents and expressing excitement for what they expect to be a highlight of the women's race.