A soigneur refers to a member of a professional cycling team responsible for tending to the riders. They provide food to the riders, massage them, administer medical assistance, and also provide encouragement.
Away from the public eye for much of the long stage races such as the Grand Tours, the soigneurs have a tough role. They assemble food packets, distribute water bottles, and monitor details in food stops and in the hotels. Nicknamed in an endearing manner as the “swannies,” the soigneurs are support staff that maintain the riders in a healthy and energized condition for days of arduous racing.
