Julien Bernard, a rider for the Lidl-Trek team, was fined by the International Cycling Union (UCI) for stopping to embrace his family during Friday’s Tour de France stage in Burgundy.
As the race passed near his home, Bernard stopped to hug and kiss his wife Margot, who was holding their child Charles, while a large crowd cheered him on.
The UCI imposed a fine of 200 Swiss Francs (approximately 205 euros or 223 USD) for what they deemed “behaviour damaging to the image of the sport.” Bernard, however, remained unfazed by the penalty, expressing that the moment was worth the fine and explaining it was a unique opportunity to show his gratitude to his wife and supporters.
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Authorities were more concerned about the crowd’s reaction, which posed potential safety risks as fans pushed forward against the security barriers, chanting Bernard’s name.
On the stage, Bernard finished 61st, 3 minutes and 11 seconds behind the winner, Remco Evenepoel.
