This work examines the historical evolution and cultural significance of the Tour de France as it reaches its centennial milestone. Author Jeremy Whittle utilizes a combination of archival research and visual documentation to trace the race's transformation from a grueling early 20th-century endurance test into a global sporting phenomenon. The text provides a structured overview of the logistical, athletic, and social dimensions that define the event's enduring legacy.

The subject matter points to a comprehensive, visually-driven historical record intended for cycling enthusiasts and sports historians. The framing suggests an accessible yet detailed retrospective that prioritizes the evolution of the race's atmosphere and competitive intensity over the last century.