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100 Articles

SAINT-GERVAIS-MONT-BLANC July 16, 2023 Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogacar, inseparable on stage 15 as they reach the summit finish at Saint-Gervais-Mont-Blanc. Wout Poels won the day with Vingegaard second and 10secs ahead of Pogacar on GC. Two days later the Dane had blown the Slovenian away, extending his lead to over seven minutes. GRAND COLOMBIER July 14, 2023 Stage 13 and UAE Team Emirates’ rider Adam Yates, who wore yellow for the first four stages, attempts to thin out the leading group on stage 13 that finishes atop the Grand Colombier. Typical of the 2023 Tour de France, Jumbo-Visma’s Sepp Kuss reels him in. Upfront Michal Kwiatkowski wins the second Tour stage of his career. A day later, his Ineos Grenadiers’ team-mate, Carlos Rodriguez, claims his first stage win at…

THE STRENGTH OF THE TOUR ALWAYS SURPRISES ME

When you joined the Tour’s organising team, did you think that 20 years later the race might turn into what it’s become? Christian Prudhomme (CP): It’s passed so quickly because it’s been a whirlwind. What makes me happy is that it’s no longer said this is an old-fashioned sport watched by old men. We see so many young people on the roadside now. Throughout this period, there have been countless firsts: Grand Départs in London, Corsica, Denmark; finishes on the Galibier, Izoard and Granon; the rebirth of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift… What was the most gratifying project? CP: The key to this is passion. And every time we succeed in making it happen, it’s a victory. This was, of course, the case with the finishes on the…

THE STRENGTH OF THE TOUR ALWAYS SURPRISES ME

General classification The yellow jersey, or maillot jaune, is worn by the general classification leader – the rider who’s taken the least cumulative time to complete the race after each stage. Time bonuses are available at each stage finish, which means the yellow jersey contenders will fight even harder for stage wins. Points classification The green jersey is worn by the leader of the points competition, usually a sprinter. The maillot vert rewards the race’s most consistent finisher based on points gained from intermediate sprints and end-of-stage placings. This year, points are weighted to favour sprint stage winners. Mountains classification The ‘King of the Mountains’ – the race’s best climber – wears the maillot à pois, which was first contested in 1975, although the competition extends back to 1933. Points…

ONE-HUNDRED-AND-76 riders will line up in Florence on Saturday 29 June with a number of objectives depending on the qualities, temperament and experience of each rider. The most collective of individual sports ensures that most of the riders have a tactical part to play in most of the stages. Some go all-out chasing stage wins, while others have their eyes set on one of the various jerseys. To that end, here we explain the jerseys that are fought over by the world’s best depending on their race aims… LCL Yellow Jersey The honour of pulling on the yellow jersey each day goes to the leader of the overall individual time classification. Prize money: €500,000 to the final winner. Škoda Green Jersey This is the jersey that rewards sprint consistency and…

JONAS VINGEGAARD

JONAS, DID YOUR second Tour de France victory last summer have a different flavour to your first in 2022? Jonas Vingegaard (JV): Yes, in a way. The first time you have the privilege of standing on the top step of the podium on the Champs-Élysées, it feels more like an accomplishment; I’d almost describe it as a relief. Winning the world’s greatest race is something I’ve been working towards for a very long time and for which I’ve worked extremely hard over many seasons. For me, as for the team, the joy that came with the victory in 2022 was completely new, something that was unprecedented. Last season, I had the feeling that I could savour more of what was happening to me, I could enjoy and understand more quickly…

JONAS VINGEGAARD

TADEJ POGACAR SIGHTS ON THE DOUBLE

“I’LL BE BACK!” As soon as he stepped off the podium on the Champs Élysées on 23 July 2003, Tadej Pogačar rolled out the famous quote from cult film ‘Terminator’ to underline that he was determined to bounce back in 2024. The Slovenian, it appeared, wanted to emphasise that it’d take a lot more to knock him off his perch. Runner-up in the 2023 race, during which he put up a formidable fight against Jonas Vingegaard before yielding on the slopes of the fearsome Col de la Loze, the leader of the UAE Team Emirates squad revealed a quality that he hadn’t previously had much opportunity to demonstrate: resilience. “During my day of weakness on the stage to Courchevel, I had the feeling that my body had shut down. I’d…

TADEJ POGACAR SIGHTS ON THE DOUBLE

A NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR PRIMOŽ ROGLIČ

“CLOSING ONE CHAPTER in order to open a new one, that’s what life’s all about.” After achieving some career-defining moments in the Jumbo-Visma jersey over the past eight seasons – three stages in the Tour de France, three victories in the Vuelta and one in the Giro – Primoz Roglic decided to close that book and start on a new one. Determined to remain in control of his own competitive fate, the 34-year-old Slovenian decided to move to Bora-Hansgrohe over the winter. “I wanted to be a leader at the Tour de France, to be in a position where I’d have a team built around me,” explains the man who finished second in the 2020 edition behind compatriot Tadej Pogacar. “Of course, that’s no guarantee of success, but I’m convinced…

A NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR PRIMOŽ ROGLIČ

REMCO EVENEPOEL

“I SLEEP BETTER now that I know I’m going to the Tour de France!” While the route of the 2024 edition may well be one of the toughest of the past decade, mention of what’s on the menu brings a smile to Remco Evenepoel’s face, while at the same time igniting a spark of impatience in the eyes of the 24-year-old Belgian. Having turned professional in 2019, this summer the Soudal Quick-Step rider will make his debut at a race he’s been dreaming about for far longer. “The time has come,” says the world time-trial champion. “Making your first appearance at the Tour is obviously extremely exciting, but more than anything it’s very motivating. Ever since I restarted training last winter, everything has been geared up for this big debut.”…

REMCO EVENEPOEL

THE HUNT FOR THE MAILLOT JAUNE…

IF JONAS VINGEGAARD, Tadej Pogacar, Primoz Roglic and Remco Evenepoel are fit and fresh come Florence, we’re set for one of the greatest Tours in history. But who will succeed from this incredible foursome? Well, maybe none of them as the depth of talent at this year’s race is staggering with even support riders potentially capable of wearing the maillot jaune in Nice on Sunday 21st July. Here, we reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the riders who could cause a massive upset. They’re either their respective team’s leader or part of the crew around one of the fearsome quartet, who could step up to main protagonist if the situation requires. Beyond this impressive selection, there are further riders who could at least challenge for the podium. They include Groupama-FDJ’s…

THE HUNT FOR THE MAILLOT JAUNE…

Alpecin Deceuninck

Established 2009 Bike sponsor Canyon General manager Philip Roodhoft Sports director Christoph Roodhoft Ass. sports directors Frederik Willems, Gianni Meersman, Jens Keukeleire, Kris Wouters, Kristof De Kegel, Luuc Bugter ALPECIN-DECEUNINCK’S GROWN into one of the most powerful teams on the WorldTour, ostensibly because of Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen. At time of press, they’d racked up 60% of the Belgian team’s 2024 victories, which included the three early season Monuments. Between them, they look likely to win stages at the Tour. How many might be decided by van der Pole’s Olympic aspirations. In 2021, he left the Tour early to prepare for Tokyo. At time of press, there remained talk of van der Poel competing in the road race and mountain biking in Paris. Surely both would mean…

Alpecin Deceuninck

Arkéa - B&B Hotels

Established 2005 Bike sponsor Bianchi General manager Emmanuel Hubert Sports director Didier Rous Ass. sports directors Arnaud Gérard, Frederic Ostian, Jasper Vaeck, Kévin Rinaldi, Laurent Pichon, Leonard Cosnier, Maxime Bouet THE TOUR IS about Arnaud Démare, especially since the departure of Warren Barguil, who’s a regular challenger in the mountains classification, which he won back in 2017. Hugo Hofstetter looks a big loss, too, after his move to Israel-Premier Tech. Still, Démare looked in fine fettle after his mid-2023 move from Groupama-FDJ, winning late-season races at the Tour de Vendée and Paris-Bourges. Though Démare had yet to win into mid-April this season, the French team had started 2024 in good shape, winning five times including victory for young French rider Kévin Vauqelin, who at 22 looks a strong prospect. 2024…

Arkéa - B&B Hotels

Astana Qazaqstan Team

Established 2009 Bike sponsor Wilier General manager Alexandre Vinokourov Sports director Alexandre Shefer Ass. sports directors Alexandr Shushemoin, Bruno Cenghialta, Claudio Cucinotta, Dimitri Sedun, Dmitriy Fofonov, Giuseppe Martinelli MARK CAVENDISH’S RETIREMENT U-turn directed Astana’s focus for the season: to help the Manx Missile to that record-breaking 35th Tour stage win. They’ve bolstered their chances of doing so with the off-season acquisitions of Michael Morkov and Davide Ballerini, though a month out with illness in spring left many wondering whether Cav would even make the Tour. Whether he lines up in Florence or not, he could be eclipsed by Alexey Lutsenko who won half of the team’s 16 victories in 2023 plus half of the team’s 2024 victories (at time of press). New recruit Ide Shelling could challenge for a stage…

Astana Qazaqstan Team

Bahrain Victorious

Established 2017 Bike sponsor Merida General manager Milan Eržen Sports director Gorazd Štangelj Ass. sports directors Andrea Fusaz, Borut Božič, Enrico Poitschke, Franco Pellizotti, Michał Gołaś, Neil Stephens, Roman Kreuziger, Sonny Colbrelli, Tim Kennaugh THE BAHRAIN OUTFIT were relatively quiet over the winter with Jonathan Milan leaving for Lidl-Trek and Soudal Quick-Step snapping up Mikel Landa to support Remco Evenepoel’s bid for yellow. Uno-X’s Torsten Traeen was the team’s only significant signing. Which harks of an outfit who are confident in their riders. And why wouldn’t they be after finishing sixth in the 2023 rankings off the back of 19 victories of which six came at the Grand Tours. They’re a team for the big occasion. Stage wins look likely again this year, though it’ll be interesting to see if…

Bahrain Victorious

Established 2010 Bike sponsor Specialized General manager Ralph Denk Sports director Rolf Aldag Ass. sports directors Bernhard Eisel, Christian Pömer, Christian Schrot, Enrico Gasparotto, Francisco Javier Vila, Heinrich Haussler, Hendrik Werner, John Wakefield, Paolo Artuso PRIMOZ ROGLIC’S ACQUISITION looks a real coup as reportedly a host of teams were after the Slovenian, including Ineos Grenadiers and Movistar. The 34-year-old could finally win the Grand Tour missing from his palmares, especially if Jonas Vingegaard’s recovery means he’s not at his peak in France – if he’s there at all. Roglic will have a world-class cast around him, but the riders might be eclipsed by the new major stakeholder, Red Bull. How this affects the team’s name remains to be seen, but you can guarantee their marketing crew will be planning something…

Established 1996 Bike sponsor Look General manager Cédric Vasseur Sports director Bingen Fernández Ass. sports directors Benjamin Giraud, Gorka Gerrikagoitia, Jean-Luc Jonrond, Jimmy Engoulvent, Roberto Damiani, Samuel Bellenoue, Thierry Marichal YOU WAIT 15 years for a Tour de France stage victory and then two come along at the same time. Yes, Cofidis’ 2023 couldn’t have gone better thanks to Victor Lafay and Ion Izagirre’s double delight into San Sébastián and Belleville-en-Beaujolais, respectively. Sadly for Cofidis, they lost Lafay to French rivals Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale. It’s a blow, though Cofidis will look to 25-year-old Axel Zingle to step up. He’s already finished second at this year’s Tour de la Provence, though he’ll be aiming for stage wins in July. The overall will be left to Guillaume Martin who’ll try and…

Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale

Established 1992 Bike sponsor Van Rysel General manager Dominique Serieys Sports director Vincent Lavenu Ass. sports directors Alexandre Abel, Artūras Kasputis, Cyril Dessel, David Giraud, Didier Jannel, Jean-Baptiste Quiclet, Julien Jurdie, Laurent Biondi 2023 PROVED TO be a poor season for AG2R Citroen Team with nine wins leaving them 19th on the UCI rankings. Well, what a difference a winter makes. Citroen’s driven off into the sunset to be replaced by Decathlon. Not only have they brought a new bike – mooted as the most affordable on the World Tour at ‘only’ £9,000 – but they’ve brought an air of optimism that’s seen them match their 2023 winning total by mid-April. Three of those went the way of Benoit Cosnefroy who looks reborn after a winless 2023. New signing Victor…

Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale

EF Education - EasyPost

Established 2005 Bike sponsor Cannondale General manager Jonathan Vaughters Sports director Charles Wegelius Ass. sports directors Andreas Klier, Jonathan Breekveldt, Juan Manuel Garate, Matti Breschel, Sebastian Langeveld, Tejay van Garderen, Tom Southam DESPITE THE MULTITUDE of options, all eyes will be on Richard Carapaz. The 30-year-old will look to put last year’s disappointing DNF behind him with a strong Grand Tour showing. This season he’s already won the six-stage Tour of Colombia and put in a great effort at La Fleche Wallonne, finishing 13th. American Neilson Powless’s aim is to build on his memorable performance in 2023 where he wore the polka-dot jersey for 12 of the first 13 stages. And it’ll be an emotional farewell for Rigoberto Uran who’s set to retire after the Olympics. On the downside, Magnus…

EF Education - EasyPost

Established 1997 Bike sponsor Wilier General manager Marc Madiot Sports director Philippe Mauduit Ass. sports directors Anthony Bouillod, Benoît Vaugrenard, David Han, Frédéric Guesdon, Jérôme Gannat, Julien Pinot, Jussi Veikkanen, Nicolas Boisson, Thierry Bricaud THERE’LL BE A Thibaut Pinot-shaped hole in the Groupama-FDJ team this Tour after the popular rider retired at the end of 2023. In fact, the French outfit has changed its focus with a new focus on youth. To that end, it’ll be interesting to see how 21-year-old Romain Gregoire handles his first Tour. He has bags of potential that he looks set to release. Thirty-year-old Stefan Kung provides experience and could well challenge in his favourite discipline, the time trial. With Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale’s excellent start to the season, the pressure is on their fiercest…

Ineos Grenadiers

Established 2010 Bike sponsor Pinarello General manager John Allert Director of racing Steve Cummings Ass. sports directors Adrián López, Carsten Jeppesen, Christian Knees, Dario David Cioni, Ian Stannard, Kurt Bogaerts, Matteo Tosatto, Oliver Cookson GERAINT THOMAS WILL be 38 years old come the Tour de France, an age when the powers of recovery are starting to wane. Which makes it a helluva challenge for the Welshman to challenge at the Giro and do similar at the Tour. It suggests he’ll line up in Florence with half an eye on supporting GC-hunting Carlos Rodriguez or the likes of Tom Pidcock to battle for stages. Of course, as Bernard mentions (to your right), he could play lieutenant for Egan Bernal who’s returning to his best. It’ll also be interesting to see if…

Ineos Grenadiers

Intermarche-Circus-Wanty

Established 2008 Bike sponsor Cube General manager Jean-François Bourlart Ass. sports directors Aike Visbeek, Bart Wellens, Dimitri Claeys, Frederik Veuchelen, Hilaire Van der Schueren, Ioannis Tamouridis, Kévin Van Melsen, Lorenzo Lapage CAN BINIAM GIRMAY make history and become the first black rider to win a stage of the Tour de France? The Eritrean has already written his epoch-making name in the record books with victory at Gent-Wevelgem and a stage of the Giro in 2022. Despite cycling’s inclusive nature, Girmay is only one of a handful of black riders in an overwhelmingly white peloton. After a frustrating 2023, the 24-year-old will be champing at the bit to perform in France. Also expect his teammate, Louis Meintjes, to challenge for top-10 on GC. The 32-year-old South African’s a canny racer and…

Intermarche-Circus-Wanty

Israel - Premier Tech

Established 2015 Bike sponsor Factor General manager Kjell Carlström Sports directors Rik Verbrugghe, Steve Bauer Ass. sports directors Daryl Impey, David Bailey, Dror Pekatch, Eric Van Lancker, Jonathan Patrick McCarty, Oscar Guerrero, René Andrle, René Mandri WALES HAS A recent exalted history in road cycling with the likes of Geraint Thomas, Luke Rowe and the Backstedt sisters all leaving an imprint on the world stage. Well, that number could be topped up by Steve Williams who’s pencilled in to make his Tour debut. Injury had set back Williams’ progress. That’s all changed this year as he stormed to victory at the Tour Down Under and La Fleche Wallonne. He could excel on the punchy stages. Chris Froome looks likely to race after being left out last year, but here’s little…

Israel - Premier Tech

Established 2011 Bike sponsor Trek General manager Luca Guercilena Sports director Steven de Jongh Ass. sports directors Adriano Baffi, Grégory Rast, Ina-Yoko Teutenberg, Jeroen Blijlevens, Kim Andersen, Markel Irizar, Maxime Monfort, Michael Schär, Paolo Slongo TEN RIDERS IN, eight out, the off-season was a busy time with Tao Geoghegan Hart, Jonathan Millan and Tim DeClerq the star signings. That positivity’s lifted the team with 15 victories at time of writing including the overall Tour of the Alps title for Juan Pedro Lopez. Dane Mads Pedersen’s been on fire, too, with six wins in 2024 including Gent-Wevelgem. The only question is whether he’s peaked too soon? If not, a third Tour stage win looks inevitable. Giulio Ciccone was ruled out of the Giro due to a cyst operation. He made his…

Established 1985 Bike sponsor Orbea General manager Stéphane Heulot Sports director Kurt van de Wouwer Ass. sports directors Dirk Demol, Marc Wauters, Mario Aerts, Nikolas Maes, Tony Gallopin SUCH IS 22-YEAR-OLD Arnaud De Lie’s talent and potential that Lotto-Dstny dug deep into their moderate budget to secure the multi-million Euro services of De Lie until the end of 2026. After graduating from Lotto’s feeder team in 2022, he won 19 times in two seasons. Unfortunately, after a winless start to 2024, he’s gone down with Lyme disease, putting his debut Tour start in jeopardy. But if he races, he could steal the sprint show. Still, there’s always the retiring Thomas De Gendt and Belgian Maxim Van Gils. In 2024 the 24-year-old’s enjoyed top-10s at Milan-San Remo, La Fleche Wallonne and…

Established 1980 Bike sponsor Canyon General manager Eusebio Unzué Sports director Iván Velascoj Ass. sports directors Alexis Gandia, José Joaquín Rojas, Jürgen Roelandts, Leonardo Piepoli, Maximilian Sciandri, Pablo Lastras, Timothy Harris, Xabier Muriel THE SPANISH SQUAD seem in a transitional stage as they continue to redefine themselves since Alejandro Valverde’s retirement in 2022. Matteo Jorgenson was the bright spark in the team’s relatively disappointing 2023. In the American they had a rider who could challenge for not only one-day success but stage races, too. But the 24-year-old’s now at Visma-Lease a Bike. They’ve brought in young talents Manlio Moro and Lorenzo Milesi, and Spanish champion Oier Lazkano looks strong. But their Tour chances will once again rest with Enric Mas, though recent history suggests a podium’s a long shot. 2024…

Soudal Quick-Step

Established 2001 Bike sponsor Specialized General manager Patrick Lefévère Sports director Wilfried Peeters Ass. sports directors Davide Bramati, Dries Devenyns, Geert Van Bondt, Iljo Keisse, Klaas Lodewyck, Tom Steels ACCORDING TO REPORTS, team boss Patrick Lefevere scolded his riders after a disappointing cobbled campaign. He also conceded that their Ardennes campaign would be weaker for the absence of Remco Evenepoel. He proved correct. Still, all that will be forgotten if Evenepoel can upset the Vingegaard-Pogacar applecart at the Tour, but can Remco beat his rivals in the high mountains? The arrival of Mikel Landa will give him his best chance. Down at sea level, Tim Merlier’s aiming for sprint success. Seven early season victories bodes well for the Belgian adding to his sole Tour stage victory thus far in 2021.…

Soudal Quick-Step

Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL

Established 2005 Bike ponsor Scott General manager Iwan Spekenbrink Sports director Rudi Kemna Ass. sports directors Albert Timmer, Bennie Lambregts, Callum Ferguson, Christian Guiberteau, Dariusz Kapidura, Hans Timmermans, Joey van Rhee, Kelvin Dekker ROMAIN BARDET’S NOW 33 but continues to carry many French fans’ hopes. And why not if his 2024 form continues. He finished fifth on GC at the Tour of the Alps followed by second at Liege-Bastogne-Liege. With Warren Barguil as support, could Bardet reprise memories of 2016 and 2017 when he finished on the Parisian podium? That’s optimistic but this is a sport that delights in surprises. And how will sprinter Fabio Jakobsen perform at his first Tour since leaving Soudal Quick-Step in the winter? When a team’s behind him, which DSM should be through week one,…

Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL

Team Jayco Alula

Established 2011 Bike sponsor Giant General manager Brent Copeland Sports director Matthew White Ass. sports directors Andrew Smith, Brian Stephens, David McPartland, Marco Pinotti, Mathew Hayman, Pieter Weening, Rafael Valls, Tristan Hoffman SIMON YATES’ FOURTH on GC last year was the 31-year-old Brit’s best Tour result to date and came off the back of Yates remaining fit. If he can do that – which he hadn’t managed in four of the previous Grand Tours with Covid the major culprit – he’s shown he can finish highly. But high enough to threaten the favourites? Possibly not. Then again, he’s training more at sea level in search of a little more top-end speed. If he finds it, he could make life uncomfortable for Pogacar and co. Michael Matthews is a wily campaigner…

Team Jayco Alula

TEAM VISMA LEASE A BIKE

Established 1984 Bike sponsor Cervélo General manager Richard Plugge Sports director Merijn Zeeman Ass. sports directors Addy Engels, Arthur van Dongen, Frans Maassen, Grischa Niermann, Jan Boven, Maarten Wynants, Marc Reef, Mathieu Heijboer, Robert Wagner WILL JONAS VINGEGAARD race? If so, how close will he be to peak fitness? The positive is that the Dutch team and their Danish lead tradtionaly follow a relatively race-light build-up to the Tour, so if he turns up with few race days in his legs, that’s arguably not the end of the world. Logic suggests if he doesn’t make it to France, Sepp Kuss will step up in search of Visma-Lease a Bike’s third maillot jaune in a row. He’ll be supported by Movistar signing and fellow American Matteo Jorgenson, who could leapfrog to…

TEAM VISMA LEASE A BIKE

Established 2000 Bike sponsor Enve General manager Jean-René Bernaudeau Sports director Benoit Genauzeau Ass. sports directors Alexis Loiseau, Dominique Arnould, Lylian Lebreton, Maxime Robin, Romain Sicard, Thibaut Macé PERHAPS IT SAYS a lot about the French team that much of the Tour build-up centred on who might ride for them rather than who is. Speaking to Quest-France earlier in the year, team boss Jean-René Bernaudeau confirmed that negotiations had started to bring Julian Alaphilippe to the team for 2025 and beyond. It’s certainly a squad that needs a shake-up with only two 2024 victories at time of writing. In France, Anthony Turgis will have stage ambitions on his mind – as will Pierre Latour, who’ll also be the team’s main rider on GC. He finished 13th in 2018 but has…

UAE Team Emirates

Established 1991 Bike sponsor Coilnago General manager Mauro Gianetti Sports director José Antonio Fernández Ass. sports directors Andrej Hauptman, Bruno Vicino, Fabio Baldato, Fabrizio Guidi, Jan Polanc, José Teixeira, Manuele Mori, Marco Marcato ACCORDING TO TADEJ Pogacar’s former coach Inigo San Millan, the Slovenian has powers of recovery that he’s never seen before. Well, Pogacar’s going to need them if he’s to become the first rider since Marco Pantani in 1998 to win the Giro-Tour double. As ever, he’d started the season strongly, winning seven spring races including Strade Bianche and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. He’ll also head to the Tour with arguably the strongest-ever Emirates team with the likes of last year’s third-place finisher, Adam Yates, and Juan Ayuso contenders in their own right. If Jonas can’t make it, who’d bet against…

UAE Team Emirates

Established 2017 Bike sponsor DARE General manager Thor Hushovd Sports director Alexandra Greenfield Ass. sports directors Anna Badegruber, Huub Duijn, Jelle De Jong, Jesper Bundgaard Vinkel NORWEGIAN PRO TEAM Uno-X harbour ambitions to reach the WorldTour with the off-season acquisition of Magnus Cort from EF Education-EasyPost the clearest sign yet that they mean business. The 31-year-old Dane’s won stages at each of the three Grand Tours including the 10th stage into Megeve at the 2022 Tour. He offers the team’s best chances of stage success this July, though you can never discount Alexander Kristoff from the equation. At 36 years old – turning 37 during the Tour – his legs aren’t what they were, but three top-10s at last year’s race suggests one last hoorah remains a possibility. Tobias Johannessen…

How did you manage to pull off the feat of hosting the Grand Départ? Stefano Bonaccini(SB): Our project came about thanks to the help of Davide Cassani, our neighbour from Faenza, a champion of the 1980s and former technical director of the Italian national cycling team. He’s also the president of our tourism promotion agency. During a meeting in my office, he said to me, “What if we could pull off the crazy dream of hosting the Tour?” It seemed impossible to us, but thanks to fantastic work from our entire team we succeeded. What are you hoping for from the Tour de France’s visit? SB: In 2019 we hosted the Giro’s Grand Départ, here in Bologna, capital of Emilia-Romagna. Perhaps you remember the fantastic images of the champions climbing…

Florence › Rimini

SATURDAY 29 JUNE 206KM THE TOUR DE FRANCE’S FIRST Grand Départ in Italy begins with a medium mountain stage that features 3,700m of vertical gain and seven major climbing tests. This is one of the Tour de France’s toughest starts, a 200km-plus rollercoaster ride across the Apennine chain. At 930m, the Valico Tre Faggi pass, which comes after 50km of today’s proceedings, is the highest point on the stage, but it’s not the most difficult test. The other climbs are shorter, but steeper. A profile of this type could well suit a breakaway group and could end with the first yellow jersey going to the rider who proves to be the most daring. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2013 Florence hosted the World Road Championships this year, won by Rui Costa. Costa…

Florence › Rimini

THE GIRO DELL’EMILIA FINALE

THE SECOND STAGE of the 2024 Tour de France will take place entirely on the roads of Emilia-Romagna. From Marco Pantani’s hometown of Cesenatico, the riders will head for Ravenna, the world capital of mosaics and home of Dante Alighieri, the father of the Italian language. They will then head for Russi. The day’s first hurdle is the Côte de Monticino (2km at 7.5%). Then it’s on to Riolo Terme, renowned for the quality of its mineral water. Soon after, at the halfway point, the riders will reach the first major climbing test of the day, close to Imola, famed for its legendary motor racing circuit. Rising for 1.2km at an average of 12%, the Côte de Gallisterna is the formidable ramp that served as the launch pad for Julian…

THE GIRO DELL’EMILIA FINALE

Cesenatico › Bologna

SUNDAY 30 JUNE 200.8KM THE FIRST SIGNIFICANT TESTS ARRIVE halfway through the stage, just before the riders reach the Galisterna climb on the Imola circuit where Julian Alaphilippe was crowned world champion in 2020. Approaching Bologna, the route becomes much more undulating. The Montecalvo climb, which the riders tackle right before entering the 18km finishing circuit, is ideal for attacks. Ridden twice, the magnificent Côte de San Luca, the superb finale to the Tour of Emilia one-day race, is a fearsome 2km climb averaging 10%. There’ll be a bonus point at the top on the second ascent. This wonderful battleground should reveal the strongest riders in the peloton. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2019 When the Giro last visited Bologna, Primoz Roglic slipped into the maglia rosa after winning the prologue. 1970…

Cesenatico › Bologna

Plaisance › Turin

MONDAY 1 JULY 231.1KM THIS IS THE TOUR’S LONGEST stage, an interminable day in the saddle leading into the capital of Piedmont. The sprinters’ teams will be called into action, tasked with controlling the race on a route that is relatively light in terms of difficulties. In fact, there are only three small climbs on the agenda. The first is in Tortone, the town where Fausto Coppi died, and the last in Sommariva Perno, 45km from the finish. There is every chance of a bunch sprint in Turin. STAGE IN NUMBERS 3 Turin has hosted three Tour de France finishes, in 1956, 1961 and 1966. Nino Defilippis won in 1956. 1966 Italy’s Franco Bitossi won at the Turin finish. He also won Il Lombardia twice, in 1967 and 1970. ROUTE…

Plaisance › Turin

Pinerolo › Valloire

TUESDAY 2 JULY 139.6KM DAY FOUR BRINGS THE RACE’S first proper mountain stage. The high altitude crossing of the Galibier (2,642m), a bonus point for the first three riders to the summit, could cause a few problems, even among the favourites. It’s going to be important to have good legs right from the start because short stages of this kind can produce very dynamic racing. This isn’t the most testing side of the Galibier. However, with the Lautaret pass leading into it, this is a long climb and there’s plenty of scope for creating gaps if the pace is fast. It’s the first big test for the contenders for overall victory. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2011 Team Sky’s Edvald Boasson Hagen, now at Decathlon-AG2R La Mondiale, won the 17th stage into…

Pinerolo › Valloire

St-Jean-de-Maurienne › St-Vulbas Plaine de l’Ain

WEDNESDAY 3 JULY 177.4KM THIS STAGE, WHICH STARTS IN the Maurienne Valley, should once again come down to a sprint. With a mere 1,000m of vertical gain, the sprinters’ teams should be able to control the race on beautiful roads surrounded by mountains and then running through Savoy’s vineyards. As they approach Saint-Vulbas, which is welcoming the Tour de France for the first time, the final stretch alongside the Rhône is flat. This is round two for the peloton’s fastest men, and offers a chance for revenge to those beaten in the sprint in Turin or for the winner there to add a second victory and confirm himself as a serious contender for the green jersey. STAGE IN NUMBERS 3 Romain Bardet won the first of three Tour de France…

St-Jean-de-Maurienne › St-Vulbas Plaine de l’Ain

Mâcon › Dijon

THURSDAY 4 JULY 163.5KM THE SECOND STAGE IN A row for the sprinters. The relatively easy route passes Burgundy’s most famous vineyards. After leaving this region renowned for its great vintages, the route becomes less sheltered. If it’s windy, the occasional changes of direction could well make the peloton very nervous. The finish in Dijon is on the Avenue Charles de Gaulle and comes at the end of a magnificent 800m straight that’s completely flat. There’s no chance of a rider finishing alone on a stage like this. Victory is likely to be decided in a sprint once again. This could feature a small group if the wind splits the peloton or a bunch finish. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2012 Thomas Voeckler won in Bellegarde-sur-Valserine when Mâcon debuted as a start…

Nuits-Saint-Georges › Gevrey-Chambertin

FRIDAY 5 JULY 25.3KM THIS IS A CRUCIAL DAY for the leaders, who’ll need to be in top physical condition. The course opens with a rising false flat that demands a lot of power. At the halfway point, another burst of power will be needed on the Côte de Curtil-Vergy (1.6km at 6.1%). The subsequent descent through the vineyards is technical. Woe betide anyone who hasn’t done a reconnaissance. On this demanding and technical course, the average speed should be close to 53kph. It should produce a fascinating contest between the time-trial specialists and the Tour favourites. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2017 Marcel Kittel won an incredible five stages at the 2017 Tour de France. The third involved a 213.5km parcours from Troyes to Nuits-Saint-Georges. 25 Distance (in km) of this,…

Nuits-Saint-Georges › Gevrey-Chambertin

Semur-en-Auxois › Colombey-les-Deux-Églises

SATURDAY 6 JULY 183.4KM THE FIRST PART OF THIS stage will be a real “leg-breaker” thanks to a series of small climbs with gradients of between 7% and 8% and roughish roads. As a result, the early action is likely to be lively, with riders looking to take advantage of the hilly profile to infiltrate a breakaway group. It could well end in a duel between the baroudeurs (the breakaway specialists) and the sprinters’ teams. The route won’t be as difficult between Chaumont and Colombey-les-Deux-Églises, where the finish will be located at the end of a long and rising false flat with the Lorraine Cross of the Charles de Gaulle Memorial in the background. The finish should favour a powerful sprinter. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2007 Legendary classics rider Tom Boonen…

Semur-en-Auxois › Colombey-les-Deux-Églises

ON THE WHITE TRACKS?

THERE’S A TOUCH of nostalgia about the route of this stage through the vineyards around Troyes as it features a number of gravel sections, a bit like those that were found on mountain passes in the late 1950s. The sport’s women played the pioneering role on these white roads, which have taken the race into a new dimension. During the first edition of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in 2022, Annemiek van Vleuten and her peers ‘enjoyed’ a first taste of the steep tracks that cut through the Côte des Bars vineyards in Champagne. That race’s fourth stage, from Troyes to Bar-sur-Aube, was a spectacular success. “It was very hot, there was a lot of dust and sometimes you couldn’t see anything,” recalls Greta Richioud, who was racing…

ON THE WHITE TRACKS?

Troyes › Troyes

SUNDAY 7 JULY 199KM THIS STAGE HAS A DIFFERENT look thanks to 32km of well-maintained white gravel roads, the longest section extending to 4,300m. The first of the 14 sections, located in the Côte des Bar region amidst superb Champagne vineyards, features a significant amount of climbing and ramps of more than 15%. Towards the back end of the stage, the sections are flatter, with the last one located 6km from the finish. This will be a stressful day both for the overall classification favourites and for the team-mates who’ll need to keep an eye on them, as well as being an interesting one for the cyclocross and Classics specialists. One thing’s for sure, this is a tricky stage! STAGE IN NUMBERS 14 Number of sectors on white roads (gravel…

Troyes › Troyes

Orléans › Saint-Amand-Montrond

TUESDAY 9 JULY 187.3KM ON THE TOUR’S LAST VISIT to Saint-Amand-Montrond in 2013, the peloton exploded in the wind when the pace set by Alberto Contador’s Team Saxo-Bank forced echelons to form. Mark Cavendish took full advantage of the situation by winning the stage. The opening part of the stage across the Sologne region should be relaxed. Beyond Issoudun, with 60km remaining to the finish, the wind will decide how the stage unfolds. It’ll either stay calm and we’ll see a bunch sprint, or the wind will pick up and the race will become much more unpredictable. Echelons will form and the race favourites will have to be on their guard. STAGE IN NUMBERS 25 A dramatic 13th stage in 2013 concluded in Saint-Amand-Montrond with stage win number 25 for…

Orléans › Saint-Amand-Montrond

A HELLISH BLEND

FOLLOWING THE 111th Tour’s first encounter with the mountains on the fourth stage from Pinerolo to Valloire, the peloton will have to wait eight days for a return to the summits. On 10 July, the riders will face some very steep climbs as they pass through the Massif Central on a day that promises to be spectacular. With 4,350m of vertical gain, this 11th stage, the Tour’s second longest at 211km, is likely to produce some gaps, particularly as most of that climbing arrives in the last quarter of the route. The start in the spa town of Évaux-les-Bains will honour the department of Creuse, which hasn’t hosted a stage start or finish for 20 years (Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat – Guéret, 13 July 2004). The race will then cross three other departments:…

A HELLISH BLEND

Évaux-les-Bains › Le Lioran

WEDNESDAY 10 JULY 211KM THE TOUR’S SECOND MOUNTAIN STAGE features the hills and passes of the Massif Central. At 211km, this is a very long day, while the amount of vertical gain is also significant, totalling 4,350m thanks to a succession of climbs followed by four passes in the final 70km. Short and steep, these difficulties should be ideal launchpads for attacks. From the Col de Néronne onwards, the racing should come to life and we can expect a spectacular showdown between the favourites over the final 40km as there’s plenty of scope for the race to be blown apart. The first three riders to the top of the Col de Pertus will bag time bonuses. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2016 In 2016, classics hunter Greg Van Avermaet won the stage…

Évaux-les-Bains › Le Lioran

Aurillac › Villeneuve-sur-Lot

THURSDAY 11 JULY 203.6KM IN THE WAKE OF A big stage, this is likely to be a quiet day on a route with a slightly downhill profile. From the Cantal mountains to the beautiful valleys of the Dordogne and Lot, the peloton shouldn’t have too much trouble controlling a breakaway. It’s an attractive route that once again passes through the magnificent site of Rocamadour, two years on from the time trial in which Vingegaard consolidated his lead over Pogačar. The stage’s finale promises to be fast as it builds towards the continuation of the battle for the green jersey classification, with a superb sprint on the cards. STAGE IN NUMBERS 9 This is the ninth time that Aurillac has welcomed the Tour. The race’s last finish here in 2008 saw…

Aurillac › Villeneuve-sur-Lot

FRIDAY 12 JULY 165.3KM THE PELOTON HEADS INTO THE Landes region on fairly quiet roads. Once they enter the department of Hautes-Pyrénées near Madiran, the riders will face a more rugged profile. The peloton should be more difficult to control during the final part of the stage on the leg-breaking climbs in the Pyrenean foothills. Consequently, it’s by no means certain that there’ll be a bunch sprint. A breakaway could stay clear all the way into Pau. The capital of the Béarn will be welcoming the Tour de France for the 75th time. STAGE IN NUMBERS 1951 The Tour’s only finish in Agen, back in 1951, was historic. Following a 135km solo breakaway, Hugo Koblet took a decisive step towards winning the Tour on his debut appearance. 75 Pau, the…

AN ICONIC FINALE?

IT’S 10 YEARS since the Tour de France last headed to the ski resort of Pla d’Adet for a Pyrenean finale, Poland’s Rafał Majka taking victory in 2014. Since then, the race has twice returned to Saint-Lary-Soulan: in 2018 (when Nairo Quintana took the day’s honours on a short 65km stage) and in 2021 (when Tadej Pogačar was the victor). On each occasion, though, the riders climbed to the Col du Portet, a new ascent that joined the race’s giants, the finish located on a 2,215m belvedere that looks out over the Pyrenean chain. This year, the stage will finish at the summit of Pla d’Adet (10.6km at 7.9%). “It’s a climb made for pure climbers,” says Bernard Thévenet. “It’s difficult from the start with gradients of 9% and its…

AN ICONIC FINALE?

Pau › Saint-Lary-Soulan Pla d’Adet

SATURDAY 13 JULY 151.9KM WE’RE GETTING TO THE HEART of the action with this first stage in the Pyrenees, which features 4,000m of vertical gain. The ascent of the Col du Galibier may have been tackled early on in the Tour, but this is still a significant moment for the climbers and the contenders for overall victory. There are three major obstacles in the final 80km, three great Tour de France classics, starting with the Col du Tourmalet, which is followed by the climb of the Hourquette d’Ancizan. And then, at the end, come the fearsome slopes of Pla d’Adet, which should sort out the Tour’s best riders, with large gaps possible at the finish. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2,115 Length (in metres) of the Col du Tourmalet, which has been…

Pau › Saint-Lary-Soulan Pla d’Adet

Loudenvielle › Plateau de Beille

SUNDAY 14 JULY 197.7KM WE DON’T OFTEN PUT TOGETHER marathon stages of this kind in the mountains, one close to 200km in length. The start at the foot of Peyresourde is likely to be explosive. The sprinters will have to be careful not to lose too much ground early on, while the team defending the yellow jersey will have to control the race from kilometre zero. Taking place on France’s national day, this is a Dantesque stage, with 4,800m of vertical gain spread over five climbs leading to the finish at Plateau de Beille. There’s likely to be two races in one: a breakaway for the stage win and the battle for the overall classification. STAGE IN NUMBERS 1997 In 1997, the first of the four finishes in Loudenville was…

Loudenvielle › Plateau de Beille

Gruissan › Nîmes

TUESDAY 16 JULY 188.6KM THE DAY AFTER THE REST day. The restart of hostilities between Gruissan and Nîmes could prove to be a quiet transition day before the Alps, but it could also turn into a difficult day and a veritable battlefield if the wind gets up. The vineyards of the Aude and Hérault regions are very exposed, while, after passing over the Pic Saint-Loup, the last 40km in the Gard region from Sommières onwards could prove tricky for those team leaders who are outside their comfort zone when echelons form. If there’s no wind, this will be the last chance for the sprinters to win a stage. STAGE IN NUMBERS 1 Gruissan is hosting the Tour for the first time, but did welcome the Vuelta a Espana’s riders in…

Gruissan › Nîmes

Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux › Superdévoluy

WEDNESDAY 17 JULY 177.8KM IT’S NOT EASY TO PREDICT the scenario for this stage. It’s very flat at the start and some rouleur-type riders will want to go all out to get into the breakaway, but the finish is more favourable to climbers. As a result, I could well imagine a breakaway of around 20 riders. Once they reach Gap, the climbers in this breakaway should make their presence felt on the slopes of the Col Bayard and then turn the screw on the very steep final kilometres of the Col du Noyer (with sections at 11%). I can easily foresee a rider crossing the finish line alone at Superdévoluy. STAGE IN NUMBERS 100 Chris Froome won the 2013 Critérium du Dauphiné when the race visited Superdévoluy. He went on…

Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux › Superdévoluy

Gap › Barcelonnette

THURSDAY 18 JULY 178.8KM THIS IS ONE OF THE most beautiful stages in terms of scenery, with Lake Serre-Ponçon the cherry on the cake. The start is quite undulating, and the succession of small climbs and the slopes of the Col de Manse should enable a breakaway of strong riders to go clear. Extending to 7.8km, the Côte de Saint-Apollinaire is more like a mountain pass. The Côte des Demoiselles Coiffées will be the setting for a final showdown. The false flat up to the line is a tough test, too. The sprinters will find it hard to recoup lost ground and victory should go to a baroudeur (breakaway specialist). STAGE IN NUMBERS 27 Gap plays host to the Tour for the 27th time. In 2020, when it last featured…

Gap › Barcelonnette

HEADING FOR THE STARS

UP THERE, THE wind whistles between the rocks. In this lunar setting, devoid of vegetation, with a wide-angle panorama of the Mercantour massif, the only sounds that disturb the spellbinding silence are the shrill cries of the bearded vultures. Steeped in history and regarded as France’s highest surfaced road, the summit of La Bonette (2,802m) is imposing both in terms of its stature and its wild and fascinating profile. According to Olivier Vaginay, former president of the Ubaye Cycling Club and the author of books on the Tour’s greats moments in the region, “It’s a climb of great contrasts. It’s very much highmountain terrain, so it can be sunny in Jausiers and snowing at the summit. It’s a wonderful pass with superb and longranging views.” CLIMBING FROM JAUSIERS Unlike other…

HEADING FOR THE STARS

Embrun › Isola 2000

FRIDAY 19 JULY 144.8KM COMING IN AN UNUSUAL PLACE at the end of the Tour because of the Olympic Games, these last three stages at the southern edge of the Alps will be decisive. The race will reach new heights of intensity and altitude as it crosses the summit of the Bonette, France’s highest road (2,802m). The pure climbers should be in their element with three passes above 2,000m. As for the favourites, their ability to withstand the effects of physical effort above this threshold should pay dividends. The gaps are likely to be significant. Concluding with the difficult climb to Isola 2000, the stage should see one of the favourites pull off a major coup and take a significant step towards overall victory. STAGE IN NUMBERS 1993 Swiss rider…

Embrun › Isola 2000

Nice › Col de la Couillole

SATURDAY 20 JULY 132.8KM THIS NEW ALPINE STAGE HAS more vertical gain (4,600m) than the previous day, but the climbs aren’t as demanding. There are four passes on the programme and very little flat. Starting at sea level, there’s a string of difficult ascents in Nice’s hinterland heading towards the Col de la Couillole. Thanks to the stage’s short distance and terrain that’s conducive to dynamic racing, the race favourites will be targeting the stage victory and will also have the opportunity to either go for the yellow jersey or to consolidate their hold on it. STAGE IN NUMBERS 1,678 The height (in metres) of the Col de la Couille which hosts its first Tour stage finish. 39 Nice will play host to the Tour de France for the 39th…

Nice › Col de la Couillole

A GRAND PREMIÈRE

THE 111th EDITION of the Tour de France will not only have an unprecedented finale on the Côte d’Azur but, for the first time since 1989, it will also conclude with a time trial. Thirty-five years ago, the Tour delivered a breathtaking finish, Greg LeMond overcoming a 50-second deficit on the course between Versailles and the Champs-Élysées to remove the yellow jersey from Laurent Fignon’s shoulders by a mere eight seconds. The picture-postcard setting for this final stage, overlooking the Med, will have all the ingredients required to serve up a similar outcome to the 1989 Tour, provided the die hasn’t already been cast when the time trial starts in Monaco. With its demanding, rollercoaster profile that features just eight kilometres of flat throughout the 34km course, the final stage…

A GRAND PREMIÈRE

Monaco › Nice

SUNDAY 21 JULY 33.6KM AN UNPRECEDENTED FINALE OUTSIDE PARIS and also an extraordinary racing test that brings to mind the historic 1989 time trial between Greg LeMond and Laurent Fignon. After two big days in the mountains, this is another long and demanding time-trial course. Held in a magnificent setting above the Mediterranean, there could be some big gaps. The peloton’s rouleurs won’t really find it to their liking, even though there are 6km of flat after the descent from the Col d’Eze. The stage classification should mirror the Tour’s overall classification. All the ingredients appear to be in place for this final stage of the 2024 Tour de France to be truly sublime. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2009 The principality of Monaco hosted the Tour for the seventh time. Swiss…

A RUSH OF ADRENALINE

The Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift is poised for its third edition, and has established itself as a key fixture in the cycling calendar… Marion Rousse (MR): One thing that pleased me during the second edition was that the tone of the questions being asked by journalists was completely different. There weren’t any more questions about whether it was wise to organise a Tour de France for women. By the second edition, everyone understood that we were just going to talk about sport. Road cycling had long neglected women’s racing, but fans have embraced it. What role did the Tour play in bringing about this change in mentality? MR: We still had to prove ourselves in the first year because a lot of people had preconceptions. But I think…

A RUSH OF ADRENALINE

PRIZES ON THE HORIZON

LCL Yellow Jersey Worn each day by the leader of the overall individual time classification. Prize money of €50,000 goes to the winner. Škoda Green Jersey This jersey rewards consistency and goes to the rider who leads the points classification. There are points available for the first 15 riders at the intermediate sprints on road stages and at the finish of each stage, with more points allocated to flat stages. Prize money of €3,000 goes to the winner. E. Leclerc Red Polka-Dot Jersey The rider leading the best climber classification receives the polka dot jersey each day. Points are awarded at the summit of all classified climbs. Prize money of €3,000 goes to the winner. Liv White Jersey Awarded each day to the best young rider in the overall individual…

PRIZES ON THE HORIZON

Demi, many think that winning the Tour changes your life. Did it? Demi Vollering (DV): There’s no doubt that more people know my name now, that people know what I’ve achieved, but I don’t feel that my daily life has been turned upside down. What I really appreciate is that my performance had the power to inspire. Just a few days ago, a young girl asked me if she could take a selfie with me, then thanked me for the way that I’d raced at the Tour. She liked the way I went on the offensive and that’s extremely gratifying. The 2023 edition was dominated by your SD Worx team – four stage wins, the team had the yellow jersey throughout and had two riders on the final podium. That’s…

KATARZYNA NIEWIADOMA

Katarzyna, do you place more value on your third place last year than on the one you achieved in the first Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift? Katarzyna Niewiadoma (KN): Yes, without a doubt. The Tour 2023 didn’t just come down to that third place on the podium for our Canyon//SRAM Racing team. I also finished with the polka dot jersey, while my team-mate, Ricarda Bauernfeind, won stage five in Albi. Given there was such a small gap (less than one second behind Lotte Kopecky), I almost feel like I finished second rather than third. So, my 2023 Tour was more spectacular and more successful. Do you also feel that you’re getting closer to the overall title? KN: Yes, I think so. At 29, I still feel like I’m continuing…

KATARZYNA NIEWIADOMA

THE ONES TO WATCH!

The Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift takes place between 12 and 18 August 2024, starting in Rotterdam and finishing atop Alpe d’Huez. Last year, hundreds of thousands flooded the streets of France to witness history in the making. This year, it promises to be even more memorable with the quality of racing higher than ever before, plus there’ll be extra intrigue thanks to the opening stages in the Netherlands. We’ve already detailed the strengths and weaknesses of the two leading lights, Demi Vollering and Katarzyna Niewiadoma. Now we look at their main competition, from the riders in form to those who’ve performed at the Tour in the past. Beyond the following quintet, also keep an eye out for the likes of Elisa Longo Borghini, who’ll look to turn one-day…

THE ONES TO WATCH!

AG Insurance – Soudal Quick-Step

Established 2019 General manager Natascha Den Ouden Sports directors Jolien D’Hoore, Christian Kos The Belgian Team have won their WorldTour licence, and celebrated with the signings of Sarah Gigante and Julie van de Velvde. Their leading rider remains the 38-year-old South African Ashleigh Moolman Pasio, who plans to retire at the end of this year. In 2024 she’s won Santa Val, and finished top-10 at La Fleche Wallonne Féminine and Amstel Gold Race. Can she retire on the ultimate high? Pictured Ashleigh Moolman Pasio’s 38 but remains one of the peloton’s strongest climbers TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Benito Mireia, Goossens Marthe, Pienaar Kimberley, Rijnbeek Maud, Steigenga Nicole, Van de Velde Julie, Wollaston Ally…

AG Insurance – Soudal Quick-Step

Arkea - B&B Hotels Women

Established 2020 Sports manager Jean-Christophe Moussard Sports directors Franck Renimel, Gregoire Le Calve The French team, who compete on the UCI Continental Women’s Tour, has won just once in 2024*, but arguably this is a team for the future. Jean-Christophe Moussard has a reputation as a project builder and will be looking to help the French team rise to the WorldTour. New signing and national road champion Emilia Fahlin of Sweden will bring much-needed experience. Pictured The Netherlands’ Maaike Coljé is set to lead Arkea in France TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Cavallar Valentina, Drummond Michaela, Ryo Titia, Squiban Maeve, Trégouet Maurene…

Arkea - B&B Hotels Women

Canyon // SRAM Racing

Established 2002 Team manager Ronny Lauke Sports directors Magnus Backstedt, Adam Szabo, André Schulze, Beth Duryea, Dani Christmas In France, the German team will rely on their leader, Poland’s Katarzyna Niewiadoma, who in 2023 finished third on GC for the second successive year. She’ll have the support of one of the strongest outfits on the WorldTour with Germany’s Ricarda Bauernfeind hitting Tour de France Femmes top-10 herself in 2023. Also keep an eye on Britain’s Alice Towers who’ll be gunning for the young rider classification. Pictured Katarzyna Niewiadoma carries the team’s hopes on her shoulders TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Backstedt Zoe, Bossuyt Shari, Bradbury Neve, Czapala Justine, Dygert Chloe, Morrice Alex, Niedermaier Antonia, Van Der Duin Maike…

Canyon // SRAM Racing

Ceratizit – WNT Pro Cycling Team

Established 2014 General manager Claude Sun Sports directors Dirk Baldinger, Steffen Radochia, Fortunato Lacquantil Ceratizit enjoyed a solid 2023, racking up 11 victories from seven riders, including a hat-trick from 22-year-old French star Cédrine Kerbaol, which ticked off her country’s time-trial championships. She also finished a superb 12th at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift and won the young rider classification. This could be the year she adds her first Grand Tour stage win to her blossoming palmares. Pictured Cédrine Kerbaol celebrates winning the young rider classificaiton in 2023 TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Acensio Laura, Archibald Katie, Brausse Franziska, De Zoete Mylene, Eberle Lana, Fidanza Martina, Jaskulska Marta, Teutenberg Lea Lin…

Ceratizit – WNT Pro Cycling Team

Cofidis Women Team

Established 2022 Team representative Cédric Vasseur Sports directors Mélanie Briot, Arthur Quillic, Takehiro Mizutani It was a busy winter for the French team as they brought in six new riders to expand their squad to 15. Multiple Czech national champion Nikola Noskova and Hannah Ludwig are experienced riders who are strong in the mountains, while it’ll be interesting to watch the development of 19-year-old Julie Bego. The French rider won the junior road race at last year’s World Championships in Glasgow and looks a real talent for the future. Pictured Hannah Ludwig, brought in from Uno-X, is a rider who shines on the climbs TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Bego Julie, Boulais Flavie, Castrique Alana, Éraud Séverine, Kern Spela, Ludwig Hannah, Ménage Lise, Van Haaften Kirstie…

Cofidis Women Team

EF Education - Cannondale

Established 2024 General manager Esra Tromp Sports directors Carmen Small, Daniel Holm Foder New to the women’s peloton in 2024 is Conti team EF Education-Cannondale that comes in the wake of, and possibly caused the demise of, EF Education-TIBCO-SVB. Many riders have risen from the ashes of the previous team like Alison Jackson, who won Paris-Roubaix Femmes in 2023. New additions include Coryn Labeck, Lotta Henttala and Kristen Faulkner, who joins from Jayco AlUla. The powerful American could well lead the team in France. Pictured Alison Jackson (centre) willl play a support role to Kristen Faulkner in France TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Armitage Megan, Cadzow Kim, Edmond Clara, Henttala Lotta, Quinn Natalie, Ruegg Noemi…

EF Education - Cannondale

Established 2006 Team manager Stephen Delcourt Sports directors Nicolas Maire, Cédric Barre, Flavien Soenen, Lieselot Decroix The French team is packed with talent including the prolific Marta Cavalli and the livewire that is Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig, who finished seventh on GC at the Tour in 2023. She’ll look to better that this August. Also keep an eye out for Australia’s Grace Brown. She won this year’s Liege-Bastogne-Liege on many of the same roads that appear midway through this year’s Tour. She has time-trial pedigree, too, and could threaten the podium on stage three. Pictured Grace Brown will look to carry over the form that saw her win Liege-Bastogne-Liege TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Adegeest Loes, Buijsman Nina, Duval Eugénie, Kraak Ambre, Le Net Marie, Molengraaf Lauren, Verhulst Gladys, Vigilia Alessia…

Fenix-Deceuninck

Established 2020 General manager Philip Roodhoft Sports directors Christoph Roodhoft, Kris Wouters, Michel Cornelisse, Rik Van Slycke The Belgian squad enjoyed a pretty impressive 2023 with numerous top-10s in big races including a podium at Paris-Roubaix Femmes for Belgian rider Marthe Truyn. But the standout performance came on stage four of last year’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift when Yara Kastelijn broke free from the pack with 20km remaining. If the 26-year-old Dutch rider can repeat the winning feat this summer, it’ll be a successful race. Pictured Yara Kastelijn enjoys the greatest result of her career on stage four of last year’s Tour TEAM ROSTER Additional Riders: Alvarado Ceylin Del Carmen, Couzens Millie, Marturano Greta, Perkins Flora, Pieterse Puck, Schrempf Carina, Stiasny Petra, Truyen Martha, Van Alphen Aniek, Wright…

Fenix-Deceuninck

Human Powered Health

Established 2012 General manager Ro De Jonckere Sports directors Kenny Latomme, Arne Dedrie, Clark Sheehan, Giorgia Bronzini Human Powered Health’s recruitment team were working overtime this winter with nine new riders added to the squad. But it’s the existing crew that the team will rely on in France. Daria Pikulik won six times in 2023 and has the legs to challenge anyone on her day. New Zealand’s Henrietta Christie is strong in the mountains, while Audrey Cordon-Ragot will look to roll back the years with stage success. Pictured Sprinter Daria Pikulik has the legs to challenge anyone on her day TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Doebel-Hickok Krista, Edwards Ruth, Grossetete Maelle, Kasper Romy, Pikulik Wiktoria, Ragusa Katia, Wood Alice, Zanardi Silvia, Zanetti Linda…

Human Powered Health

Laboral Kutxa-Fundacion Euskadi

Established 2020 General manager Aitor Galdos Sports directors Ion Lazkano, Peio Goikoetxea There were huge celebrations in the Basque Country as Laboral Kutxa-FundacionEuskadi’s Tour debut was confirmed in April. But the hard work starts now. Their leading rider is Ane Santesteban, who made the move from Jayco AlUla this winter. The 33-year-old finished a superb eighth on GC in last year’s Tour off the back of 10th at the Giro d’Italia Donne. Japan’s Eri Yonamine also adds Tour experience. Pictured Ane Santesteban leads the Spanish team off the back of her move from Jayco AlUla TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Blanco Iuriani, Eraso Idoia, Meneses Jessenia, Romeu Marta, Teruel Alba, Tonetti Cristina…

Laboral Kutxa-Fundacion Euskadi

Established 2019 General manager Luca Guercilena Sports directors Markel Irizar, Ina-Yoko Teukenberg, Maxime Monfort, Sebastian Andersen A team packed with talent will be led by Elisa Longo Borghini, who’s already won three times in 2024 including her stunning performance at the Tour of Flanders for Women. The multiple Italian champion has carved out an incredible palmarès thanks to her versatility and racing nous. Last year, ill and exhausted, she had to throw in the towel before the Tourmalet stage. Though not the strongest of climbers, if she can tame Alpe d’Huez, she could well podium. Pictured Elisa Longo Borghini showed her grit with a wet win at this year’s Tour of Flanders TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Backstedt Elynor, Chapman Brodie, Copponi Clara, Holmgren Ava, Holmgren Isabella, Klein Lisa, Moors Fleur,…

Liv AlUla Jayco

Established 2012 General manager Brent Copeland Sports directors Martin Vesteby, Jessica Allen, Megan Chard, Wim Stroetinga The merger between Jayco-AlUla and Liv Racing has resulted in a team bristling with talent. Spain’s Mavi Garcia might have turned 40 in January but she still has the motivation and power to be in the battle for stage victory, while Teniel Campbell is one of the strongest time triallists in the peloton. Ruby Roseman-Gannon’s also shown good early season form with victory in the road race at the Australian national championships. Pictured Mavi Garcia’s in the twilight of her career but can still challenge at the business end of a race TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Andersson Caroline, Campbell Teniel, Gaskjenn Ingvild, Howe Georgie, Pate Amber, Paternoster Letizia, Ton Quinty, Zigart Urksa…

Liv AlUla Jayco

Lotto Dstny Ladies

Established 2006 Team representative Kurt van de Wouwer Sports directors Dirk Onghena, Grace Verbeke “It’s an incredible opportunity for our team to compete on such a grand stage, and we’re truly excited to challenge ourselves against the world’s best.” The words of Lotto Dstny’s Mieke Docx on hearing the Belgian team will be at the Tour this summer. Docx could well be there, alongside new signing Thalita De Jong, who they brought in from Liv. It could be a masterstroke as De Jong’s a former cyclocross world champion who brings a wealth of experience including stage victory at the Giro d’Italia in 2016. Pictured Dutch rider Thalita De Jong brings a wealth of experience to the Belgian team TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Boels Dina, De Keersmaeker Audrey, Gielkens Esmée, Nicolaes…

Lotto Dstny Ladies

Movistar Team Women

Established 2018 General manager Sebastian Unzué Sports directors Jorge Sanz, Jurgen Roelandts, Tim Harris, Alexis Gandia, Pablo Lastras Annemiek van Vleuten’s retirement means others will have to step up to the plate. And new signing Olivia Baril is doing just that with two early season victories to her name. However, the odds are on Germany’s Liane Lippert leading the Spanish outfit at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. The 26-year-old’s always in the mix and won stage two of last year’s event. Brit Claire Steels could provide invaluable support after her move from Israel. Pictured Liane Lippert will be gunning for more success at this year’s Tour de France Femmes TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Erić Jelena, Ferguson Cat, Mackaij Floortje, Martín Sara, Meijering Mareille, Ruiz Pérez Laura, Steels Claire…

Movistar Team Women

Established 2018 General manager Ruben Rodrigo Contreras Sports directors Sergey Kilmov, Cédric Bugnon, Florent Horeau, Jochen Dombusch From 1 January 2004, Israel Premier-Tech no longer sponsored this WorldTour women’s team so now they are 100% Swiss with principal support from Roland, a confectionary company. They’ll be looking to enjoy the sweet aroma of stage success in France via the Russian limbs of Tamara Dronova, who’s won twice already this season, both victories coming at the Tour of El Salvador. The powerful Swiss Elena Hartmann will be another rider to watch if selected. Pictured Russia’s Tamara Dronova poses the Swiss team’s greatest threat at the Tour TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Christoforou Antri, Collinelli Sofia, Grinczer Natalie, Swinkels Sylvie, Vettorello Giorgia…

St Michel-Mavic-Auber93

Established 2012 General manager Tony Hurel Sports directors Charlotte Bravard, Simon Armold, Stéphan Gaudry, Stéphanie Javalet, Tony Hurel This French Continental team will once again line up at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in search of experience and growth. At last year’s event, Célia Le Mouel showed a fair bit of guts – and speed – as she finished eighth on stage four. But the team looks set to support 19-year-old Marion Bunel who’s finished top-10 on GC twice this year already. Pictured Marion Bunel’s only 19 years old and has a great future ahead of her TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Fournier Roxane, Guilman Victoria, Roussel Elyne…

St Michel-Mavic-Auber93

Established 2022 General manager Gleb Groysman Sports directors Bakhtiyor Nuradinov, Farruh Radjabov, Rashida Safina, Rusian Useynov Tashkent spent most of 2023 chasing UCI points to secure an Olympic spot on the road race for Uzbekistan. They achieved that comfortably and, in the process, they received an invitation to the Tour to become the first Uzbek team to compete in either the women’s or men’s events. Many of the points came courtesy of Olga Zabelinskaya who’s raced for many European- and US-based Conti teams since 2004. She’ll lead an inexperienced but motivated team in France. Pictured Olga Zabelinskaya will lead the first Uzbek team to race the Tour de France Femmes TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Abdullaeva Shaknoza, Goloina Evgeniya, Koskova Anna…

Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL

Established 2012 General manager Tony Hurel Sports directors Charlotte Bravard, Simon Armold, Stéphan Gaudry, Stéphanie Javalet, Tony Hurel Juliette Labous is one of France’s great GC hopes, as she showed with second at last year’s Giro d’Italia. She’s more of a steady climber than an attacking one but she’s tenacious and will seize an opportunity if it presents itself. She also finished fifth on GC at the Tour. Britain’s Pfeiffer Georgi will support Labous. Third at this year’s Paris-Roubaix is indicative of her capacity to tough it for a great result. Pictured Juliette Labous carries French GC hopes on her shoulders TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Barbieri Rachele, Ciabocco Eleonara, Hengeveld Daniek, Koch Franziska, Nelson Josie, Plouffe Maeve, Rayer Eglantine, Smith Abi, Storrie Becky, Uijen Elise, Van der Meiden Anna…

Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL

Team SD Worx-Protime

Established 2011 General manager Danny Stam Sports directors Anna van der Breggen, Lars Boom The Dutch team continue to lead the way thanks to a glittering array of talent that, more often than not, clicks. It certainly did at last year’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift with Demi Vollering. Can Vollering make it two in a row before her mooted departure? If she does, it’ll be without star rider Lotte Kopecky who’s skipping the race due to prioritising the Olympics. Still, the likes of Lorena Wiebes will surely keep the victories coming. Pictured Lorena Wiebes erred at Amstel Gold but that was a rare mistake from the sprint sensation TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Gerritse Femke Guarischi Barbara, Markus Femke, Schreiber Marie, Uneken Lonneke, Van den Broek-Blaak Chantal, Vas Blanka…

Team SD Worx-Protime

Team Visma-Lease a Bike

Established 2021 General manager Rutger Tijssen Sports directors Jan Boven, Jos van Emden, Apparently Marianne Vos is immortal and will keep on winning races until she becomes bored. Which seems like never as an early season trio of victories testifies including Amstel Gold. She’s 37, has over 250 wins to her name but shows no sign of letting up any time soon. She’ll lead the team at the Tour and, though inevitably Vos will finish high up on GC, stage victories are the main aim. She’ll have world-class support from the likes of Britain’s Anna Henderson. Pictured Marianne Vos continues to rack up victories including here at Dwars door Vlaanderen 2024 TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Achtereekte Carlijn, Geurts Mijntje, Nooijen Lieke, Oudeman Maud, Riedmann Linda, Veenhoven Nienke, Von Berswordt Sophie…

Team Visma-Lease a Bike

Established 2011 Team representative Cherie Pridham Sports directors Nic Marche, Alejandro Gonzalez-Tablas, Davide Arzeni, Giuseppe Lanzoni Silvia Persico heads up the UAE team. By finishing six stages in the top seven and racking up fifth place overall, the Italian was the major revelation of the Tour’s first edition in 2022. A superb all-rounder, the cyclocross specialist finished in style at Super Planche des Belles Filles, where only Annemiek van Vleuten and Demi Vollering were ahead of her. Since then, though, she’s won just once. Still, matching her fifth position from 2022 looks within her grasp. Pictured Silvia Persico’s all-round strength could see her challenge for the yellow and green jerseys TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Alsayegh Safia, Bertizzolo Sofia, Carbonari Anastasia, Consonni Chiara, Harvey Mikaela, Ivanchenko Alena, Kumiega Karolina, Neumanova Tereza…

Established 2022 General manager Jens Haugland Sports directors Alexander Greenfield, Anna Badegruber, Huub Duijn, Jelle de Jong The Scandinavian team has a 17-strong squad to choose from with Finland’s powerful sprinter and two-time national road-race champion Annilna Ahtosalo arguably providing their greatest chance of stage victory. Italy’s Maria Giulia Confalonieri is an experienced rider who’ll look to guide her teammates through a tough eight stages, while British fans will hope Joss Lowden makes the team. Lowden’s back racing after the birth of her and husband Dan Bigham’s baby boy last year. Pictured Maria Giulia Confalonieri is aiming to leave her mark in France TEAM ROSTER Additional riders: Aalerud Katrine, Andersen Solbjork Minke, Barker Elinor, Beekhuis Teuntje, Berg Edseth Marte, Dideriksen Amalie, Edseth Marte Berg, Koerner Reben, Lowden Joselin…

Rotterdam › The Hague

MONDAY 12 AUGUST 123KM THIS FIRST STAGE WILL BE run almost entirely on flat terrain. The first yellow jersey should go to a sprinter. There are exposed stretches where echelons could well form, and there are narrow roads too. The repeated changes of direction will put the peloton to the test and should add some dynamism to the racing. And if the wind starts to blow… Well, it’s going to be mentally exhausting and extremely nerve-wracking. The finish faces the sea and comes at the end of a slightly rising straight. The winner will not only need plenty of speed, but also good positioning and great dexterity. This could be one for the expert bike handlers. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2 Lorena Wiebes will be favourite to wear yellow after the…

Rotterdam › The Hague

Dordrecht › Rotterdam

TUESDAY 13 AUGUST 69.7KM THIS STAGE HAS THE SAME DNA as the first. Once again, it’s on the flat and on small roads. It’s very short, so we can expect plenty of action right from the start. The riders who are focusing on the overall classification may already have their sights set on the time trial during the following afternoon. But it’ll be hard to preserve resources if the peloton is blown apart by the wind! They’ll have to be careful not to let their guard down. What’s more, there’s no way to avoid exerting yourself when racing. The final stretch runs alongside the quaysides, while the final straight is 1.2km long, offering another golden opportunity to the sprinters. STAGE IN NUMBERS 37.19 Average speed (in km/hr) when Rotterdam’s Chantal…

Dordrecht › Rotterdam

Rotterdam › Rotterdam

TUESDAY 13 AUGUST 6.3KM THIS IS A VERY SHORT time trial, the only one of this Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. The idea is to establish an initial hierarchy without creating significant gaps between the favourites. Victory today could come down to a single second. The course starts with a nice straight run to Rotterdam town hall. After making a U-turn at a roundabout, the riders go back in the direction they’ve just come from before going full gas on the slight rise to the Erasmus Bridge. After a few bends, they’ll reach the Willemsbrug Bridge, with the finish coming soon after. This is a course that should test the explosive qualities of the most powerful riders. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2005 The year Rotterdam was named European Capital of…

Rotterdam › Rotterdam

Valkenburg › Liège

WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 122.7KM IN CONNECTING THESE TWO CITIES that have an emblematic place in cycling’s history, we’ve taken pieces from both the Amstel Gold Race and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. There are four climbs to spice up the start of the stage, including the Cauberg, and these should allow a good breakaway to form. Things get serious again on the Côte de Mont-Theux, which climbs in a straight line at an average of 10%. The final 40km are identical to Liège’s route, featuring the climbs of La Redoute, Les Forges and La Roche-aux-Faucons. There’s sure to be a shake-up. The yellow jersey is more than likely to have a new owner. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2012 The year Marianne Vos won the fifth of her seven world titles in Valkenburg. She will be…

Valkenburg › Liège

A CLASSIC TALE?

ON THIS FOURTH stage of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, the rouleurs and sprinters are likely to yield centre stage to the baroudeuses, the breakaway specialists. But this stage should also tell us a little more about the state of form of the main contenders. It almost goes without saying that this route through the Ardennes has a hint of the Classics about it. This is totally understandable as, after starting at the Shimano Centre in Valkenburg, the peloton will initially face a condensed version of the Amstel Gold Race (2024 winner Marianne Vos), with the emblematic Cauberg as a highlight, and then of Liège-Bastogne-Liège (2024 winner Grace Brown), notably including the famous Côte de La Redoute. The finale, on the banks of the Meuse, could either…

A CLASSIC TALE?

Bastogne › Amnéville

THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 152.5KM THE START OFFERS ANOTHER NOD to Liège-Bastogne-Liège and takes the race closer to France, which it enters after 60km. It’s almost impossible to predict the scenario on this kind of course. One thing is certain: the Côte de Montois is an ideal launchpad for an attack. At the summit, the road continues to climb on a false flat before plunging towards Amnéville. Will a lone attacker be able to maintain their advantage over the peloton? They’ll need to be well aware that the finish is quite tough, with a steep climb in the last 800m. It’s a finish that’ll suit a powerful sprinter. STAGE IN NUMBERS 6 The 1.7km-long Cote de Montois-la-Montagne, which averages 6%, could well decide today’s stage. 2017 Bastogne’s hosted the women’s Liege-Bastogne-Liege…

Bastogne › Amnéville

Remiremont › Morteau

FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 159.2KM LEAVING THE VOSGES, WE FOLLOW the Moselle before crossing the Col de Mont de Fourche into the department of Haute-Saône. The route passes through Thibaut Pinot’s home town of Mélisey and then Lure, which welcomed us during the race’s first edition. The final 70km become increasingly undulating. Just beyond Consolation-Maisonnettes, the Côte de la Roche du Prêtre could well trigger a great battle, particularly its final 1.5km section that averages 9%. There’s one more hill from which the route plunges towards the finish, which runs slightly uphill. Juliette Labous and Evita Muzic, who both came through the ranks at Morteau, will undoubtedly be keen to shine here. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2012 Morteau played host to stage seven of the then only major French women’s stage race,…

Remiremont › Morteau

A TRUE SPECTACLE

THERE’S NO BEATING around the bush when it comes to this penultimate stage: the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift is entering its decisive phase! It’s the first high-mountain stage, the first stage in the Alps and the first summit finish… A show is guaranteed. Fans of women’s cycling recall the 2018 La Course by Le Tour between Annecy and Le Grand-Bornand. “We witnessed a beautiful finale with a duel between the two Dutch riders, Annemiek van Vleuten and Anna van der Breggen, that went right to the death,” enthused Tour director Marion Rousse when she presented the race last October. “There’s lots on the menu, with five categorised climbs over 167km of racing, comprising 3,100m of vertical gain.” It should be a grandiose spectacle. As soon as the riders…

A TRUE SPECTACLE

Champagnole › Le Grand-Bornand

SATURDAY 17 AUGUST 166.4KM THIS IS THE LONGEST STAGE and takes the race into the Alps. It’s likely to be a very hard physical test for the riders. The very first hurdle, the Croix de la Serra, sets the standard with 12km of climbing. The stage continues in this same leg-breaking fashion with the Col de Saint-Jean-de-Sixt and then the renowned Colombière. The finish will be halfway up the pass at Chinaillon, after 7km of climbing. It’s still a fairly rolling stage and won’t necessarily go the way of the pure climbers. What’s more, the next day’s stage will certainly be on everyone’s mind, and the contenders for overall victory may be hesitant. It’s up to the more audacious riders to take advantage of this. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2 Is…

Champagnole › Le Grand-Bornand

Le Grand-Bornand › Alpe d’Huez

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST 149.9KM THIS IS OBVIOUSLY THE “QUEEN” stage. After last year’s linking of the Aspin and Tourmalet, this year’s stage is a step up in difficulty. Including two super-category passes is a first. The Glandon is interminable, with some very steep sections towards the end. There’ll be no hiding on it. Its slopes will deliver an irrevocable verdict. And then there’s Alpe d’Huez. We wanted to become part of Tour legend on our first-ever encounter with the Alps and what better way to do that than by tackling the climb with 21 bends? What’s more, because it’s nicknamed “Dutch Mountain”, in a way we’ll have come full circle after the start in Rotterdam. STAGE IN NUMBERS 2 Dutch rider Leontien van Moorsel won twice atop Alpe d’Huez, in…

Le Grand-Bornand › Alpe d’Huez

1903 Dist 2,428km Av Speed 25.679kph ● 1 Maurice GARIN (FRA, Age32) ● 2 Lucien POTHIER (FRA) ● 3 Fernand AUGEREAU (FRA) 1904 Dist 2,428km Av Speed 25.265kph ● 1 Henri CORNET (FRA, 20) ● 2 Jean-Baptiste DORTIGNACQ (FRA) ● 3 Aloïs CATTEAU (BEL) 1905 Dist 2,994km Av Speed 27.107kph ● 1 Louis TROUSSELIER (FRA, 24) ● 2 Hippolyte AUCOUTURIER (FRA) ● 3 Jean-Baptiste DORTIGNACQ (FRA) 1906 Dist 4,637km Av Speed 24.436kph ● 1 René POTTIER (FRA, 27) ● 2 Georges PASSERIEU (FRA) ● 3 Louis TROUSSELIER (FRA) 1907 Dist 4,488km Av Speed 28.470kph ● 1 Lucien PETIT-BRETON (FRA, 24) ● 2 Gustave GARRIGOU (FRA) ● 3 Emile GEORGET (FRA) 1908 Dist 4,488km Av Speed 28.740kph ● 1 Lucien PETIT-BRETON (FRA, 25) ● 2 François FABER (LUX) ● 3 Georges…

MULTIPLE VICTORIES FIVE VICTORIES ANQUETIL Jacques (1957, 1961–1964) MERCKX Eddy (1969–1972, 1974) HINAULT Bernard (1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1985) INDURAIN Miguel (1991–1995) FOUR VICTORIES FROOME Chris (2013, 2015, 2016, 2017) THREE VICTORIES THYS Philippe (1913, 1914, 1920) BOBET Louison (1953–1955) LEMOND Greg (1986, 1989, 1990) TWO VICTORIES PETIT-BRETON Lucien (1907, 1908) LAMBOT Firmin (1919, 1922) BOTTECCHIA Ottavio (1924, 1925) FRANTZ Nicolas (1927, 1928) LEDUCQ André (1930, 1932) MAGNE Antonin (1931, 1934) MAES Sylvère (1936, 1939) BARTALI Gino (1938, 1948) COPPI Fausto (1949, 1952) THEVENET Bernard (1975, 1977) FIGNON Laurent (1983, 1984) CONTADOR Alberto (2007, 2009) POGACAR Tadej (2020, 2021) VINGEGAARD Jonas (2022, 2023) VICTORIES BY NATION France: 36 Belgium: 18 Spain: 12 Italy: 10 Great Britain: 6 Luxembourg: 4 United States: 3 Switzerland, Holland, Slovenia, Denmark: 3 Ireland, Germany, Australia,…

SATURDAY 29 JUNE 2024 will be a landmark date for Italian cycling as Florence hosts the Grand Départ of the 111th edition of the Tour de France. Though this is the 26th time that the Tour’s starting pistol will be fired abroad, it’s the first time that Italy will pull the trigger; in fact, the first three stages of the world’s greatest sporting event will take place on Italian soil before returning to France. Its Grand Départ debut comes as quite a surprise as not only is road cycling ingrained in Italian culture, the Tour has often rolled into the Italian side of the Alps. To celebrate this historic moment, we bring you Italian Masters. Within, we detail the ups and downs of Italy’s seven Tour de France winners. Read…

Falling from the summit

11.07-02.08.1998 / Total distance 3,875km IT’S APT THAT Marco Pantani, ‘The Pirate’, the rider regarded as the strongest climber to have graced the world’s asphalt, won the 1998 Tour de France to complete the Giro-Tour double. This was the year of the Festina affair where the Tour’s existence came under threat from the needle. Pantani’s entire career lived under a shadow, but it only added to his mystery, his appeal, that lives onto this day despite his tragic death. The Death of Pantani Soon after midday on Monday 9 February 2004, Pantani, one of the few riders to threaten Lance Armstrong and US Postal’s dominance, checked into Hotel Residence ‘Le Rose’ in the Italian seaside resort of Rimini. This was off-season, a time where a rider’s prepping for the races…

Falling from the summit

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