Key Stages of the Tour de France
The Tour de France is in full swing, and the upcoming stages promise to be crucial for the general classification. The first individual time trial, covering 25.3 km from Nuits-Saint-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin, is set to be a significant test for the leaders. This flat course, with a minor hill at Curtil-Vergy, will serve as a dress rehearsal for the Olympic Games, which will occur three weeks later in the Paris region. The stage is expected to be relatively smooth, with sheltered terrain and a slightly technical descent. The race director, Thierry Gouvenou, describes it as ideal for riders capable of rolling a big gear, reminiscent of the timed stage near Laval in 2021, won by Tadej Pogacar.
Predictions and Highlights
Remco Evenepoel, the reigning time trial world champion, is the favorite for this stage. He has shown promising form at altitude, and this course is expected to be favorable for him. His main rivals, Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard, will also be closely watched. The stage will be broadcast on France 3 and France 2, with live commentary available on Eurosport and Figaro.fr. Additionally, the heritage of Burgundy will be highlighted, with the runners passing through the famous vineyards of Morey-Saint-Denis. This stage offers a unique blend of athletic challenge and cultural appreciation, making it a must-watch event.
- The 7th stage will feature three intermediate time checks, providing multiple opportunities for riders to gauge their performance. The first departure is scheduled for 1:05 p.m., with the last arrival expected at 5:29 p.m. The Curtil-Vergy hill, though not listed as a major obstacle, could still impact the riders' rhythm.
- The 6th stage, from Mâcon to Dijon, offers a different challenge with its entirely flat profile. This 163.5 km stage is a prime opportunity for sprinters, with a final straight of 800 meters. The fictitious start will be given at 1:35 p.m., and the stage is expected to conclude around 5:19 p.m. This stage will also showcase the cultural heritage of Burgundy Franche-Comté, with the riders passing by the Château de Germolles, a historic monument.
- In terms of predictions, Jasper Philipsen, despite recent bad luck, could make a strong comeback with the support of Mathieu van der Poel. However, he will face competition from Wout van Aert and Dylan Groenewegen, who are also strong contenders for the stage victory.
