The yellow jersey, or Maillot Jaune, is undoubtedly the most iconic and coveted jersey in the Tour de France. Worn by the overall leader of the race, it signifies their dominance and command over the peloton. The history of the yellow jersey dates back to 1919 when it was introduced as a way to easily identify the race leader.

The general classification of the Tour de France is the most important classification of the race and determines the winner of the race. Since 1919, the leader of the general classification wears the yellow jersey (French: maillot jaune pronounced [majo ʒon]).

The yellow jersey of the Tour de France is the oldest and most coveted jersey not only of the TdF, but also the sport of cycling. The rules are simple: the rider with the fastest cumulative time wears the yellow jersey. At the end of the race, that rider is the overall winner of the Tour de France.