Stage Two: Valenciennes to Dunkirk, 178km
The weather in Valenciennes is less than ideal today—certainly not as pleasant as conditions elsewhere. Where are you following the race from?
Today’s stage covers 178.3 kilometers from Valenciennes to Dunkirk. The route includes another ascent of Cassel, but a group sprint finish in Dunkirk seems the most likely outcome. The port city is well-known among cycling enthusiasts for hosting the *Quatre Jours de Dunkerque*, a multi-day race that, despite its name, spans six days.
Similar to the first stage, a westerly wind could create challenging crosswinds along the exposed final 35 kilometers, potentially causing splits in the peloton. These early stages often see high tension and frequent crashes, though the sprinters—like Jasper Philipsen—will likely see this as another opportunity.
---
Stage Preview
Welcome to CuriosityNews coverage of the Tour de France 2025. Today’s stage is the flattest of this year’s race, with just a single category-four climb and only 800 meters of elevation gain over 178.3 kilometers. The race begins at 1:10 PM CEST (12:10 PM BST), with the finish expected around 5:18 PM CEST (4:18 PM BST). However, the peloton often outpaces predicted speeds.
Will this make for a dull stage? Not necessarily. The pace could be high, and if the predicted wind picks up, it may unsettle the riders. General classification contenders will aim to avoid mishaps, while the sprinters will be focused on victory.
Among the favorites is Tim Merlier (Soudal Quick-Step), though Sam Watson (Ineos Grenadiers), who won the *Four Days of Dunkirk* earlier this year, could also be a strong contender. Stage one winner Jasper Philipsen (Alpecin-Deceuninck) will be looking to add another win, along with Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek), Dylan Groenewegen (Jayco-Alula), Jordi Meeus (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe), and Biniam Girmay (Intermarché-Wanty)—if he’s recovered from a crash in yesterday’s stage.
Read next
Weekly Sports Quiz: Focus on Harry Kane, Victor Wembanyama, and WSL Champions
Local Community Efforts Drive Environmental Change
In a small town nestled between rolling hills and dense forests, residents have taken it upon themselves to spearhead a movement aimed at fostering environmental sustainability. This grassroots initiative is drawing attention for its comprehensive approach to tackling ecological challenges.
At the heart of
France and US Reign in Rapid and Blitz at Pall Mall Masters Chess Event
Mastering chess in central London is uncommon, though the annual ChessFest in Trafalgar Square draws over 20,000 visitors.
In London's Pall Mall club scene, the RAC clubhouse has been the site for the Oxford vs. Cambridge Varsity match for nearly fifty years. In 2023, the Athenaeum hosted
Indiana Fever and the Magasphere: A Risky Route to Fame for a WNBA Team
The Indiana Fever's season has concluded, marked by both its on-court performance and off-court controversies. Despite being eliminated by the Las Vegas Aces for the second consecutive year, the team has drawn significant attention, becoming a focal point in the WNBA this season.
The Fever'