The mountains await. Today’s 123.7km stage will guide riders into the Central Massif, featuring four classified climbs totaling around 2,350m of elevation gain. The route includes two category three ascents, one category two, and one category one, all packed into a 60km segment before concluding in Ambert.
Though the stage begins on fast, flat roads departing from Clermont-Ferrand, the peloton will quickly need to shift focus to climbing. This is one of three mountain stages in this year’s race, with the remaining two set for the upcoming weekend.
Who will emerge victorious? The general classification contenders will likely play a key role. Kim Le Court Pienaar (AG Insurance-Soudal), who won yesterday’s stage and wears the leader’s jersey, appears in strong form. However, riders such as Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime), Pauline Ferrand-Prévot (Visma-Lease a Bike), and Pauliena Rooijakkers (Fenix-Deceuninck) are also poised to contend. Defending champion Kasia Niewiadoma (Canyon-SRAM-Zondacrypto), known for excelling on this terrain, and Demi Vollering (FDJ-Suez) are also expected to feature prominently.
For those interested in sharing their thoughts on today’s stage or the broader competition, feedback can be sent via the provided contact option.
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