The Arrival of Television Drama

The 1970s and 1980s saw television coverage mature into the spectacle familiar today. Helicopter cameras captured mountain passes from angles that revealed their true severity. Motorcycle cameras brought viewers into the peloton, showing tactical maneuvering previously invisible to roadside spectators. Multiple cameras enabled directors to cut between groups, building narrative tension across hours of racing.

Manufacturing Drama

Television's need for drama influenced race organization. More summit finishes were added because they guaranteed exciting visuals. Time bonuses at intermediate sprints created action throughout stages. The publicity caravan evolved into elaborate parade, providing entertainment during broadcast lulls. Race organizers, conscious of television ratings, designed routes to maximize spectacular scenery and dramatic racing.

This television influence wasn't entirely positive. Some argued it privileged spectacle over sporting integrity. Mountain stages became increasingly severe, pushing riders toward desperate measures to survive. The pressure to provide entertainment sometimes overshadowed competitive fairness. Yet television money underwrote the sport's growth, enabling higher salaries, better organization, and global reach.