In the context of the Tour de France, the term “relegated” typically refers to the disqualification or demotion of a rider or a team due to a violation of the rules or conduct that is deemed unsportsmanlike. This can occur for various reasons, such as dangerous riding, causing a crash, or violating specific race regulations.
When a rider is relegated, they may be moved to a lower finishing position than they would have earned based on their performance during the race. This is often accompanied by a penalty that affects their standings in the overall classification or specific stages of the race. Relegation is intended to maintain fair competition and ensure the safety of all participants.
In some cases, teams can be relegated as well, particularly in the context of team rankings or classifications that affect their eligibility for future events or sponsorships. Overall, relegation is a serious matter in the highly competitive environment of the Tour de France, where adherence to rules and sportsmanship is crucial.