The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has fined French cyclist Julien Bernard $223 for "unseemly or inappropriate behavior during the race and damage to the image of sport." The incident occurred during the seventh stage of the Tour de France when Bernard stopped to kiss his wife and son, who had come out to support him as the race traveled through the region of Burgundy, where he is from.
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has sparked controversy by fining French cyclist Julien Bernard $223 for "unseemly or inappropriate behavior during the race and damage to the image of sport." The incident occurred during the seventh stage of the Tour de France when Bernard stopped to kiss his wife and son, who had come out to support him as the race traveled through the region of Burgundy, where he is from.
Videos on social media show Bernard slowly riding through a crowded street as fans cheered enthusiastically for him. In the middle of the excitement, Bernard's wife emerged holding their young son, and Bernard stopped to kiss both of them before carrying on.
UCI Fines French Cyclist Julien Bernard for "Inappropriate Behavior" During Tour de France
The UCI's decision to fine Bernard has been met with widespread criticism, with many people calling it a "ridiculous" and "over-the-top" reaction. Bernard himself responded to the news on social media, seemingly unbothered by the fine.
"I'm sorry UCI for damaging the image of the sport," Bernard said on Twitter. "But I'm willing to pay 200 Swiss francs every day and experience this moment again."
UCI Fines French Cyclist Julien Bernard for "Inappropriate Behavior" During Tour de France
Bernard's wife, Laure, also took to social media to defend her husband, saying that the UCI's decision was "unfair" and that the incident was simply a "beautiful moment" between a husband, wife, and their child.
The UCI has not publicly commented on the criticism it has faced over the fine, but Bernard's supporters have launched a petition on Change.org calling for the UCI to reverse its decision. The petition has already garnered over 100,000 signatures.
UCI Fines French Cyclist Julien Bernard for "Inappropriate Behavior" During Tour de France
The incident has raised questions about the UCI's priorities and whether it is more concerned with upholding a strict code of conduct than with promoting the human side of the sport. Some commentators have suggested that the UCI's decision may have a chilling effect on cyclists who want to express their emotions during races, which could lead to a less exciting and engaging spectacle for fans.
Others have pointed out that the UCI has been inconsistent in its application of the rules, with some cyclists being fined for minor infractions while others have been allowed to get away with more serious offenses. This has led to accusations of bias and favoritism within the organization.
The UCI's decision to fine Bernard has also been criticized for its timing, coming at a time when the Tour de France is facing increased competition from other cycling events. The UCI's actions could discourage fans from watching the Tour de France, which would be a major blow to the sport.
It remains to be seen whether the UCI will reconsider its decision in light of the widespread criticism it has faced. However, Bernard's supporters have made it clear that they will not stand for what they see as an injustice, and they are prepared to continue fighting until the fine is reversed.
