White Jersey

The white jersey: youth and special classifications in stage racing.

The white jersey, known as the maillot blanc in the Tour de France, is awarded to the best-placed rider under age 26. It is also used in other stage races for youth classifications or other competitions.

Quick Facts

Classification: Best Young Rider
Eligibility: Riders under 26
Color: White

Facts from the source article.

Background

The most prominent white jersey is in the Tour de France, where it recognizes the best young rider (under 26). Other races awarding a white jersey for best young rider include the Deutschland Tour, Giro d'Italia (cut-off age 25), Paris–Nice, Tour of California (cut-off age 23), and Tour of Ireland. Some races use a white jersey for other classifications: the Vuelta a España awards it for the Combination classification (since 2003; in 1941 it was for the General classification leader), the Tour of the Basque Country for the Points classification, the Volta a Catalunya for the General classification (with green stripes), the 2008 Tour de Suisse for the Sprints classification, and the Tour Down Under for the King of the Mountains classification (with green piping).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the White Jersey in the Tour de France?

The Maillot Blanc is the classification jersey awarded to the top young rider in the overall general classification. It is one of the four principal jerseys in the race and specifically highlights emerging talent.

How is the White Jersey winner decided?

The jersey is handed to the highest-placed eligible rider in the general classification when the Tour finishes. It is scored purely on overall time rather than points or stage wins.