23,000 police to guard riders and fans at the 2016 Tour de France

French elite forces will be following the Tour de France for the first time this year to counter the potential threat of terrorism

(Image credit: chris catchpole)

In order to keep fans and riders safe at the Tour de France this summer, the French authorities have drafted in 23,000 police officers, including elite forces.

Units from the National Gendamerie Intervention Group (GIGN) will monitor the race for the first time as the threat from terrorism in the country remains high.

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Stuart Clarke is a News Associates trained journalist who has worked for the likes of the British Olympic Associate, British Rowing and the England and Wales Cricket Board, and of course Cycling Weekly. His work at Cycling Weekly has focused upon professional racing, following the World Tour races and its characters.