What is Lanterne Rouge and where does the expression come from?

Answer by  dhuoda (1431)

It means "red lantern" in French and it comes from the red light that vehicles usually have at the back to signify their presence to other drivers. It is used in cycle races like the Tour de France. It means the last person in a long chain and has therefore a fairly negative connotation.

Answer by  HH (404)

French for Red Lantern. The term is used for the last placed rider in a cycling stage race like the Tour de France. Lantern at the end of a train.

Answer by  nuttree (1596)

"Lanterne Rouge" is the name given to the last finisher in a major bike race, like the Tour de France. The term refers to a train's caboose, which carried a red lantern. Finishing last is something of a distinction, so riders in back will compete for the Lanterne Rouge.

Answer by  ShayanFCB (366)

It is the person in last place in a cycling race. The term means red lantern and comes from the red lantern that was hung at the end of trains