Mont Ventoux was introduced to Tour de France in 1951 (one year earlier than Alpe d’Huez and Puy de Dôme). At the first 3 occasions (1951, 1954 and 1955) the peloton crossed the top during mid-race, the first summit finish was organized only in 1958.
The 11th stage of Tour de France 1955 started in Marseille and finished in Avignon after 198 km. Between them the Mont Ventoux. Louison Bobet reached the top of the mighty ascent first, he won also the stage.
Bobet was wearing the world champion’s rainbow jersey, which he changed for the yellow jersey after the 17th stage (including Aspin and Peyresourde).
On the road up to the top of Mont Ventoux, his wife Christiane was supporting him from the roadside.