Tour de France: Lenny Martinez Under Fire for Alleged Use of “Sticky Bottle” Tactic

A video clip from Stage 18 of the 2025 Tour de France is going viral on social media, showing French cyclist Lenny Martinez potentially using a controversial and unofficial maneuver known as the «sticky bottle» technique — a tactic that could lead to disciplinary action if confirmed, as reported by Purepeople.

Martinez, currently wearing the polka dot jersey as the top climber in the 112th edition of the Tour, was seen approaching his team car to collect a water bottle during the climb up the Col du Glandon. However, footage shared by Eurosport appears to show the rider holding onto the bottle — and thus the vehicle — for several seconds, possibly gaining an unfair advantage.

«Sanction in sight for Lenny Martinez?» Eurosport captioned the post. L’Équipe added, «The rider from Cannes didn’t do it discreetly, repeating the method three times in a row.» Despite receiving and returning three bottles from the team car, Martinez ultimately rode off without keeping any — prompting further speculation about the true intention behind the maneuver.

The incident casts a shadow over what has otherwise been a standout Tour for the 22-year-old climber, who has previously won the Tour de la Vallée d’Aoste (2022), held the red jersey in the Vuelta a España (2023), and claimed multiple French classics in 2024.

The Tour began on July 5 in Lille, heading through Normandy, Brittany, and the Pyrenees. Martinez has emerged as one of France’s top hopes, but the current controversy could put his achievements at risk if race officials deem the video evidence sufficient for penalties.

The Tour de France jury has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.

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