Four different jerseys to battle for and an almost indistinguishable array of flags on arms and across chests — but what do they all mean and how does a rider earn the right to wear one?

These loyal ‘servants’ to their leaders will rarely win a race, though will often be seen at the front of the pack. But what exactly do they do and how does this help their team’s challenge for honours?

What is grimpeur, and what are the key characteristics of these flyweight climbers that excel when to road heads high above the treeline?