The 2016 Tour de France featured a dramatic and unforgettable moment on the iconic Mont Ventoux stage. Chris Froome, the defending champion, found himself in a chaotic situation that led to a unique and memorable scene.
During Stage 12 of the race on July 14, 2016, the riders were set to climb Mont Ventoux, one of the most challenging and revered climbs in the Tour de France. However, due to extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and a hailstorm, race organizers made a last-minute decision to move the finish line lower down the mountain.
As the riders approached the adjusted finish line, a motorbike carrying a TV camera suddenly stopped in front of a group of riders, causing a collision that brought down Froome, Richie Porte, and Bauke Mollema, among others. Froome's bike was damaged in the crash, and with no team car nearby to provide a replacement, Froome had no choice but to start running up the mountain.
In his yellow jersey, Froome began running up the steep slopes of Mont Ventoux while fans lined the road, shocked by the unprecedented scene. Eventually, a neutral service vehicle arrived with a replacement bike for Froome, allowing him to continue the race.
Despite losing time due to the incident, Froome managed to salvage his overall lead in the Tour de France. He would go on to win the race for the third time in his career, joining a small group of cyclists who have achieved three Tour victories.
