Paris, 4 July 2026 (dpa/MIA) - Another forecast heatwave could impact the upcoming Tour de France, with stages possibly even cancelled, French interior minister Laurent Nuñez has reportedly said.

Reports said that Nuñez has sent a letter to regional prefectures through which the famous cycling race is to pass, saying that the recent period of extreme heat had shown that the main aim must be to prevent hospitals and the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed.

Around 2,000 people died in the heatwave in the second half of June which had the highest temperatures ever officially recorded in the country.

The Tour starts on Saturday in Barcelona and runs until July 26, with up to 10 million spectators expected.

Nuñez said that various measures could affect the Tour if the highest heat alert is raised - ranging from bolstering medical teams along the course to adjusting the route and cancelling stages, if worse comes to worst.

“In exceptional circumstances, and in consultation with the organiser and all parties involved, you may decide to cancel a stage if health or operational conditions no longer allow you to simultaneously ensure the safety of spectators and staff, and to maintain emergency care for the public,” the letter said.

Tour boss Christian Prudhomme reacted relaxed, telling sports daily L'Equipe that local authorities could always implement measures for the good of the public and that common sense was the main priority.