Female Cyclists Caught Using Secret Bra Pads to Win Races? Shocking Truth Revealed!

On August 4, officials conducted extra clothing checks on female riders competing in this year’s Tour de France following reports of “chest fairing,” a practice involving the insertion of bra padding to alter torso morphology and reduce aerodynamic drag.

What is chest fairing?

The term refers to the alleged use of external padding beneath cycling apparel to increase bust volume and reshape airflow around the upper torso. According to aerodynamics specialists, such modification may affect drag coefficients during high-speed racing.

Bert Blocken, professor of aerodynamics at Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, told The Telegraph that chest fairing could lower drag by as much as 3.6%. He explained that a smaller natural bust may allow formation of an “air pocket” near the abdomen, which marginally increases drag — a condition the padding seeks to counteract.

Regulatory response

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) prohibits non-essential elements that modify a cyclist’s morphology. Article 1.3.032 of the UCI regulations explicitly covers clothing and accessories — including helmets, glasses, shoes, and communication devices — that may alter physical form during competition.

A Tour de France official statement confirmed enforcement focus on compliance with that article: “Special attention will be given to compliance with article 1.3.032 of the UCI regulations, including non-essential elements and clothing or other items/accessories used by the cyclist (including, but not limited to, helmets, glasses, shoes or communication devices during the race) that may modify the cyclists’ morphology.”

Origins of the investigation

Dutch newspaper WielerFlits first reported the trend last month. Its coverage triggered widespread discussion across the women’s cycling circuit and prompted the August 4 inspections. It remains unclear whether any riders were found using breast padding during those checks.

Nonetheless, the timing and specificity of the added scrutiny signal organizers’ intent to deter the practice ahead of future races.