At the launch of the first edition of the Tour Feminine Internationale des Pyrenees, race organizers emphasized their intended role in the development of women's cycling in France.

The French Association of Women Cyclists (AFCC) was the driving force behind the inauguration of the race, aiming to further the objective of promoting women's cycling by ensuring the legitimate representation of its members and developing solidarity and unity among them.

"The first edition of the Tour Feminine Internationale des Pyrenees is a decisive turning point for women cyclists," said AFCC co-presidents Marion Clinet and Elizabeth Chevenne-Blache.

"They now have the same status as male cyclists and are fully recognized by the professional cycling community. Each of the stages that make up this tour will be a great opportunity to show the public that amateurism is no longer an issue in their sport."

"The UCB is a great example of how to show that amateurism is no longer an issue in the sport of cycling.

The UCI has granted the Tour Féminin International des Pyrenees 2.1 status, giving it equal importance to already established races such as the Tour of Lotto Belgium.

The race, which will be held over three days from August 5-7, will consist of a team time trial in Artiguelouve and Lac on the first day, two stages of circuit racing around Pau, a stage from Pierrefitte Nestoras to the Col du Soulol, and a stage starting in Lourdes The race consists of a stage starting in Lourdes.

The Col du Soulol, where the race will be decided, has appeared in the Tour de France since 1910 and includes a 20 km climb with a steep 10% gradient section. From the summit, the race will highlight the natural beauty of the region, with views of the Pyrenean rocky peaks and lush green mountainsides.

In this endeavor, the AFCC is the title sponsor of the race along with CIC, one of France's leading banks.

"This tour of the Pyrenees is a beautiful advertisement for the region we support locally," said Patrice Cauvet, managing director of CIC Sud Ouest.

"This commitment is in line with our partnership with the French Cycling Federation. We are proud to support this very emblematic event."

As a company with a mission, the CIC works specifically for inclusion and equality, and it is essential that women's professional cycling gets all the recognition it deserves.