The Tour of Flanders
The Tour of Flanders
When war broke out in August 1914, the Tour of Flanders was still only a small competition. Just two editions had been held since its founding the year before. With the transformation of the race track in a combat zone, the future appeared uncertain. Nevertheless, in 1915 and 1916 two editions were held on indoor cycling tracks.
The German occupier didn’t take to cycling and outlawed all events. The ban was eventually repealed, but sporting events were still heavily taxed. The ban on traveling meant many racers had problems just getting to the starting line. Finally, in 1916 the Germans commandeered all bicycles. The next Tour wasn’t held until after the war.
Want to learn more about the 1916 Tour of Flanders? Read our blog: ‘Vergeten Ronde van Vlaanderen ontdekt!’
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De grote oorlog
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