There were some rule changes prior to the 1951 edition. Due to some complaints regarding Koblet's win the year prior, which some credited due to the time bonuses he had garnered from intermediate sprints, summits, and stage finishes, all time bonuses were removed from the race. In addition, the intermediate sprint classification was removed as a whole. "Nouvelliste Valaisan" felt the changes would make the cyclists lose interest. In addition, rules were changed regarding flat tires, riders would have to change the inner tube rather than change wheels.