Proper nutrition is paramount for Tadej Pogacar & Co. © APA/afp / MARCO BERTORELLO

8.000 calories a day: This is how the tour stars eat

Three weeks, 21 stages, over 3.300 kilometers: The Tour de France demands everything from professional cyclists. The riders burn between 5.000 and 8.000 calories daily—an extreme strain that requires not only strength but also a sophisticated nutritional strategy. Without targeted nutrition before, during, and after the stages, peak performance is virtually impossible.

July 23, 2025

From: dpa

There's a misconception that, at least after a stage, the topic of nutrition rests somewhat. But quite the opposite: For Tour de France third-place finisher Florian Lipowitz, it's far from all about relaxation after crossing the finish line. "First, there's a juice, usually grape juice, and a recovery shake," explained the 24-year-old. A meal tailored to his individual needs—easily digestible and nutrient-rich—is waiting for him in the team bus. "Usually it's something like rice with egg or chicken," said Lipowitz.

The Red Bull team has its own "kitchen truck" where the food is prepared by nutritionists. For team boss Ralph Denk, the advancement of nutrition in cycling is an "absolute game changer." He believes it's one of the main reasons why the pros are getting faster and faster.

Energy supply during the stage is crucial

Of course, nutrition is also crucial during the stages. Lipowitz needs to consume approximately 120 grams of carbohydrates per hour to maintain his performance. He achieves this through energy gels and regular drinking. Failure to do this consistently risks a drop in performance or the dreaded "hunger bout."

Causing a sensation at the tour: Florian Lipowitz © APA/afp / MARCO BERTORELLO

German champion Georg Zimmermann also emphasized that nutrition plays a very important role in professional cycling in general, including in preparation for tours. For him, it's even more important than training. "I think you can gain a lot by being a bit more relaxed during training and focusing more on nutrition," said the 27-year-old, who had to abandon the Tour after just the 9th stage following a heavy crash.

Zimmermann is currently consistently weighing his meals – a method recommended by the team's nutritionists to help him manage his energy intake. "Nobody is forced to weigh their food. It's just a tool that helps us get the best out of ourselves." At the Tour de Suisse in June, Zimmermann was in strong form, riding more consistently at the front than ever before in a week-long tour.