Are you watching a rerun of the 2021 Tour De France? You'll probably see the biggest crash in cycling history as the pack moves through the town of Brittany.
Look out for the woman holding a sign reading 'Allez opi omi,' it's an entertaining moment in the race. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression ‘Allez opi omi’ is a combination of words from French and German. There is no information available on why the phrase contains two specific languages. "Allez" translates to "go" in the French language, and "opi" and "omi" are German words referring to "grandpa" and "grandma."
Therefore, the phrase 'Allez opi omi' directly translates to ‘Go grandpa-grandma.’
It was a phrase on a sign held up by a woman during the 2021 Tour De France. However, she stepped into the road holding the sign, causing a crash in the race. As a result, you'll only use this phrase when trolling cyclists.
Example Usage
“Did you see that girl standing in the road with that sign at the Tour? She caused a huge accident. I think her sign read ‘Allez opi omi.’”
“Allez opi omi, It’s good to see you both again. It’s been a few months. How are you keeping, and what’s the news around the village?”
“Allez opi omi, I miss you guys. Talking over the phone like this is fine, but I miss talking to you in person and the good times we have together.”
Origin
The expression ‘Allez opi omi’ originates from the 2021 Tour De France cycling race. During the Tour, it’s common for villagers to flood the sides of the roads to cheer on the cyclists as they pass. The event is televised, and many people use it as a chance to get on international TV.
One of the onlookers at the Brittany leg of the race held up a sign ‘Allez opi omi’ to the camera, encroaching on the road, causing a massive accident between the competitors. The accident occurred with around 45km of the stage left to ride, resulting in injuries to many riders.
Tony Martin of the Jumbo-Visma team crashed into the sign, creating a pile-up. Most riders could continue with the race after the sign incident. However, Jasha Sutterlin was transported to the hospital due to injuries sustained in the crash.
Phrases Similar to Allez Opi Omi
- Hi grandma and grandad.
Phrases Opposite to Allez Opi Omi
- Unknown.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Allez opi omi.
Ways People May Say Allez Opi Omi Incorrectly
The saying ‘Allez opi omi’ means ‘hi grandad and grandma.’ However, it’s s combination of two European languages. Therefore, it’s not a common greeting or used frequently in the EU.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Allez Opi Omi
You can use the phrase ‘Allez opi omi’ when trolling cyclists and cycling groups online. It’s an offensive term in the sport and reminds competitors and cycling enthusiasts about the 2021 crash at the Tour De France.
After the accident, the meme went viral in late 2021, and it’s still popular on social media, especially when the tour De France starts. Allez opi omi doesn’t have much use outside the cycling world unless you live in Europe, where people will understand what you’re saying.