The Tour de France was heading 'behind closed doors' as Covid-19 infection rates rose across France, after local officials stepped in to ban fans from the key climbs on Sunday's mountain stage, to the summit of the Grand Colombier. Rapid rises in infection rates of Covid-19 are now threatening to ensure that the race will enter its final week, heavily closed off. Spectators have also been banned from all starts and finishes, as the convoy enters three days in the so-called 'red zones' of greatest infection. Tour de France organisers will reinforce restrictions on climbs in coronavirus 'red zones''Access will be prohibited,' an official statement read. Soren Kragh Andersen claimed a surprise stage win on Saturday to frustrate Peter Sagan'I feel emotional,' Andersen said after taking his first stage win in the Tour.

Source: Daily Mail September 12, 2020 17:48 UTC