Romain Bardet Returns to Tour de France, Now as Water Carrier

Romain Bardet, a former Tour de France podium finisher, made a surprise appearance at Stage 10 of the 2024 Tour de France, acting as a water carrier for his former teammates. Bardet retired last month after a career that included two Tour podiums and four stage victories. His brief stint as a water carrier showed he is still part of the cycling family.

Former Tour de France podium finisher Romain Bardet made a brief, yet symbolic, appearance at Stage 10 of the 2025 Tour de France, acting as a water carrier for his former teammates. This role reversal, which took place on July 14, 2025, in the Massif Central region, highlighted Bardet's enduring connection to the cycling community.

Bardet, who retired last month following the Criterium du Dauphine, had a distinguished career that included two Tour podiums in 2016 and 2017, and four stage victories on the world's biggest race. His decision to step away from competitive cycling was met with widespread respect and admiration from fans and peers alike.

On Stage 10, Bardet was seen handing out water bottles to riders from Picnic PostNL, a quiet and symbolic gesture that underscored his continued involvement in the cycling world. This role reversal was not lost on fans or the peloton, who appreciated the former team leader's presence and his willingness to support his colleagues.

Bardet's brief stint as a water carrier is a testament to his enduring influence and respect within the cycling community. Despite his retirement from competitive racing, Bardet remains an integral part of the cycling family, demonstrating his commitment to the sport and its participants.

References:

[1] https://www.reuters.com/en/bardet-makes-brief-tour-appearance-water-carrier-2025-07-14/
[2] https://velo.outsideonline.com/road/road-racing/tour-de-france/live-updates-tour-de-france-stage-10-2025-final-results