It is completely possible to build up the same interest for a women's race as the men's, this has happened in some sports but probably more challenging for the ones that have been historically male dominated. It is up to the TdF to set the right tone and inject the adequate resources and publicity to make this happen.

Personally, not a fan of TdF (the podium girls aren't a good look to me but not the reason I don't watch it) but if there's a women's race, I would certainly watch and support it.