Organisers have changed the route of stage 19 of the Tour de France because of a herd of diseased cattle on the Col des Saisies
The discovery of an outbreak of contagious nodular dermatitis affecting cattle in a herd located specifically in the Col des Saisies has necessitated the culling of the animals.
Tour de France organisers said: "In light of the distress experienced by the affected farmers and in order to preserve the smooth running of the race, it has been decided, in agreement with the relevant authorities, to modify the route of Stage 19 (Albertville–La Plagne) and to avoid the ascent to the col des Saisies."
Due to this change, which notably bypasses the Col des Saisies, the stage will now cover a total distance of 95 km instead of the originally planned 129,9 km.
As a result, the start in the neutral zone will be given at 2:30 p.m, one hour later than originally scheduled.
