Cyclists in the Tour de France used to raid bars without paying. They would drink alcohol like wine, beer, and champagne to replenish fluids. This was because water from roadside wells was often unsanitary. The alcohol helped with pain and made their muscles feel better when they climbed mountains.
When this happened in the 1950s and 60s, there were no support cars. Riders would stop at bars and cafes to get drinks. They would take the drinks without paying and leave. The organizers of the Tour de France would pay the bill at the end of the race.
This practice was common. It was a way for riders to get the drinks they wanted.
