Rainbow Jersey FAQ's

Does the rainbow jersey pre-date the UCI?

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) was founded April 14, 1990 in Paris as the governing body of the national cycling federations of Belgium, France, Italy, Switzerland and USA.

When was it first used?

The Rainbow Jersey was first awarded on the road in 1927 in Nurburgring, Germany.

What do the colors signify?

The 5 colors (from the bottom up the colors are: green , yellow, black, red and blue ) are similar to the 5 Olympic Rings and stand for the 5 continents of the World.

What are some of the traditions (and rules) governing use of the rainbow jersey?

A World Champion is entitled to wear the jersey when competing in the same type of race for which the title was won. For example, the World Road Race Champion wears the jersey while competing in stage races and one-day races, but would not be entitled to wear it during team time trials or individual time trials.

What are some of the traditions on other articles of clothing by former champions?

A World Champion is entitled to wear the jersey for a year. At the end of his reign he is entitled to wear.

What about the “curse of the rainbow jersey?”

Stay tuned to Cycling Revealed for a future article on the “Curse of the Rainbow Jersey.”

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