France • Stage Race
A shivering peloton battles the biting crosswinds of the northern plains, chasing the promise of warmth as the road snakes toward the Mediterranean. It is the 'Race to the Sun,' a brutal spring awakening where legends are forged in the transition from winter's grey shadows to the shimmering azure of the Promenade des Anglais.
Total Editions
1
Latest Winner
TBD
First Edition
2026
Total Distance
1230 km
Known for treacherous crosswinds (bordures) in the northern flatlands, unpredictable spring weather including snow, and a decisive final weekend in the steep, technical hills of the Maritime Alps surrounding Nice.
Browse all historical editions and their results
| Year | Winner | |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | TBD |
The race was founded by media mogul Albert Lejeune to promote his newspapers in Paris and Nice.
The event returned after a hiatus during World War II under the temporary name Paris-Côte d'Azur.
Irish legend Sean Kelly secured his seventh consecutive overall victory, a record of dominance that remains unchallenged.
The Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) took control of the race, cementing its status as the premier early-season stage race.