Record Number of KOMs Set During 2025 Tour de France, Strava Reports

In a remarkable display of athletic prowess, the 2025 Tour de France witnessed the establishment of 1,809 new King of the Mountain (KOM) records, according to data released by the fitness tracking platform Strava on July 30, 2025. This total marks the highest number of KOMs recorded during the prestigious cycling event, surpassing the previous record of 1,770 set in 2024.

KOMs represent the fastest times achieved by cyclists on specific segments of the race, and the influx of spectators and competitive riders during the Tour de France typically results in numerous record-breaking performances. Tadej Pogačar, a Slovenian cyclist and four-time Tour de France champion, emerged as the most prolific KOM setter of the event, securing a staggering 362 KOMs, which accounted for approximately one in five of all new records established during the race.

Pogačar's performance included a noteworthy achievement on stage 16, where he set a new record for the steep and challenging Mont Ventoux climb, completing the 20.74-kilometer ascent at an average gradient of 8.3%, in a time of 53 minutes and 37 seconds, significantly improving his previous best by five minutes. This performance garnered him nearly two million 'kudos' on Strava, with his stage 2 upload being recognized as the most celebrated activity of the summer.

Other notable competitors included Lenny Martinez from France, who collected 126 KOMs before being penalized for rule violations, and Bruno Armirail, who achieved 80 KOMs. Britain's Oscar Onley also impressed with 72 KOMs during the race, narrowly missing Pogačar’s record on stage 12 at Hautacam.

The 2025 Tour de France was characterized as the fastest in history, with an average speed of 42.8491 kilometers per hour, a trend attributed to advancements in aerodynamics, rider training, nutrition, and increased financial investment in the sport. This year’s KOM records reflect not only individual efforts but also the evolving dynamics of professional cycling.

Experts in the field emphasize the significance of these records. Dr. Brian Thompson, a Professor of Kinesiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, noted, "The continuous improvement in average speeds during the Tour de France indicates a shift in the sport, driven by technology and athlete conditioning. The data from Strava illustrates how competitive cycling is becoming increasingly intense, with more athletes capable of achieving peak performances."

From an economic perspective, the surge in new KOMs and the overall increase in speed may have implications for sponsorship and viewership. According to a 2023 report by the International Cycling Union (UCI), events like the Tour de France are experiencing higher commercial interest due to increased viewer engagement driven by platforms like Strava.

The future of the Tour de France and competitive cycling continues to evolve, with the potential for even more remarkable records as technology and training methodologies advance. As Pogačar and his contemporaries push the boundaries of human performance, the cycling community anticipates what the next edition of the Tour will bring.

In conclusion, the record number of KOMs set during the 2025 Tour de France not only highlights the exceptional capabilities of today’s cyclists but also serves as a reflection of the ongoing changes in the sport, driven by innovation, competition, and a growing fanbase. The future looks bright for cycling as athletes continue to break barriers, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the years to come.