Machine learning comes to Tour de France

Cycling fans will be able to get deeper insights into one of the most popular races, Tour de France, with the introduction of machine learning algorithm. The race, which began in Düsseldorf, Germany on July 1, finishes at the Champs-Élysées in Paris on July 23. The new data analytics platform combines live and historical race data, and also enables fans to benefit from rider profiles to understand better the environments and circumstances in which riders perform best. At the core of the live tracking and data analytics solution are GPS transponders installed under the saddles of each bike. The data collected from these transponders is combined with external data about the course gradient and prevailing weather conditions to generate insights such as live speed and the location of individual riders, distance between riders, and composition of groups within the race.