Cyclist Bernard fined for kissing woman – DW – 07/06/2024

French cyclist Julien Bernard was fined on Saturday for trying to kiss his wife during the Tour de France.

The fine from the International Cycling Union (UCI) is 200 Swiss francs (€205, $222).

What was Julien Bernard fined for?

On Friday, fifteen minutes into the seventh time trial stage of the Tour de France, Bernard paused to kiss his wife and young son, surrounded by a group of family and friends.

The stage of the race took place in Burgundy, in eastern France, the rider’s home region.

The UCI said the behaviour was inappropriate and damaged the image of the sport.

In a TV interview, Bernard called it an “incredible” moment.

“It was absolutely incredible. My wife has been organizing this for a few weeks with some friends and she has done a really great job,” he said.

“During a time trial you have time to enjoy. It’s these moments that keep me going and cycling.”

Bernard also defended the meeting with his wife and son on the platform X, formerly Twitter.

“I’m sorry UCI for damaging the image of the sport,” Bernard said. “But I’m willing to pay 200 Swiss francs every day and relive this moment.”

In response to Bernard’s X-post, Danish cyclist Magnus Cort shared a video of himself stopping to kiss his wife during the Tour de France, with the caption: “What a joke. I guess I was lucky they missed me a few days ago.”

Bernard finished in 61st place out of 174 riders.

sdi/rc (Reuters, SID)