Cyclingfan.com
A cyclist slaps a smartphone out of the hand of a spectator
Millions of fans have already turned out to watch the event, which started in Yorkshire, England. In an attempt to get as close to the action as possible, smartphone-happy fans are stepping through the throngs of viewers and into the raceway to take selfies with passing-by cyclists. There's a hashtag for the photos: #TDFselfie.
Zoe Doyle's selfie has been widely circulated on Twitter, drawing much criticism for her caption: "Nearly died taking #TDFselfie"
Nearly died talking #TDFselfie???? pic.twitter.com/xect1YjZIP
- zoe (@zodoyle) July 6, 2014
The selfie-takers are getting dangerously close to the cyclists, turning their backs on the fast-moving riders to get the perfect shot.
Bye bye photo camera #TDF pic.twitter.com/GTqHkKwe9k
- José Been (@TourDeJose) July 7, 2014
Other spectators have opted for safer selfies, if they're taking them at all.
American cyclist Tejay van Garderen was vocal on Twitter about his disdain for the phenomenon.
A dangerous mix of vanity and stupidity.........
- Tejay van Garderen (@tejay_van) July 6, 2014
Standing I the middle of the road with you back turned while 200 cyclists come at you, just to take a selfie. #think #TDF2014
- Tejay van Garderen (@tejay_van) July 6, 2014
That being said, I love the crowds and thank you for your support. But please give us room. Gonna ice my knee now.
- Tejay van Garderen (@tejay_van) July 6, 2014
Cyclist Geraint Thomas said he's already dodged selfie-takers in the road during the first two stages of the race, reports the BBC. He's described the selfie-takers as ""the new pain in the arse" for riders.
"For sure, it was a bit dodgy at times," he said. "The worst thing is when people have got their back to the peloton taking selfies. There were a few. They don't see us coming, they're stood in the road and it's dodgy."