Bytager the publication "Study Identifies Most Effective Team Strategies to Reduce Aerodynamic Drag by Up to 76%"
A recent study, conducted by Heriot-Watt University in collaboration with Ansys (a Synopsys entity), analyzes the impact of team strategies in the peloton on aerodynamic efficiency, with direct applications to the 2025 Tour de France. Energy savings for the leader of a formation can reach 76%.
Photos: Filip Bossuyt, Hugo LUC, DR
Led by Professor Bert Blocken, this research uses computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to quantify the reduction in aerodynamic drag based on the configurations adopted by the teams. The results, published on July 21, 2025, highlight the strategic importance of training to optimize rider performance over a demanding race of more than 3 km.
Methodology and objectives
The study aims to assess how peloton formations influence the aerodynamic drag of the protected rider, thereby saving energy for key moments in the race. The researchers modeled a cyclist using Ansys CFD technology, analyzing airflows around formations of three, four, and five riders. The simulations focused on conditions without crosswinds to isolate the effect of the configurations.
Results of the analyzed team strategies
Inverted triangle (3 riders): The protected rider benefits from a 60% drag reduction, or a residual drag of 40% compared to an isolated position.
Diamond (4 riders): The leader's drag is reduced by 62%, with a residual drag of 38%. This configuration also improves the aerodynamic efficiency of the teammates.
Train (5 riders): With two pairs of teammates positioned in front of the leader, drag is reduced by 76%, resulting in a residual drag of 24%. This is the most efficient formation for the protected rider.
Implications for teams
The results confirm the effectiveness of the strategies intuitively adopted by professional teams. According to Frédéric Grappe, performance director at Groupama-FDJ, the choice of formation depends on the dynamics of the race and tactical objectives. For example, a five-rider train is ideal for protecting a leader in fast sections, while a diamond formation can be favored to balance the team's overall effort. The study provides quantitative data to allow teams to refine their tactics before the race, although variables such as rider body shape or the presence of vehicles can influence results in real-world conditions.
Contribution of technology
The use of CFD simulation, derived from aerospace engineering, allows for precise analysis of airflows and their interactions with riders. Thierry Marchal, director of industrial programs at Ansys, emphasizes that this approach makes cycling physics accessible to the general public while providing advanced tools for teams to optimize their performance.
Conclusion
This study provides scientific validation for team peloton placement strategies used in professional cycling, with drag reductions of up to 76% in optimal configurations. Although limited to conditions without crosswinds, the analysis offers insights valuable for sports directors and riders, reinforcing the importance of aerodynamics in modern competition.
