The first half of the stage is a flat affair as the race heads due south. However, the second half of the stage consists of three catergorised climbs. The last ascent – the Côte de Sécheras – is second category, 2.8km in length and with pitches averaging 8 per cent. The majority of the sprinters will be distanced and could struggle to regain contact but a rider such as Edvald Boasson Hagen (Dimension Data) should be targeting the win. He can climb when required and is in form. Surviving the 13.9 per cent section on the climb will be crucial to his chances.
Cyclingnews' top tip: Edvald Boasson Hagen (Dimension Data): The Norwegian is well capable of making the selection on the late climb and then being the fastest finisher left.
-
The master and mentor – Romain Bardet prepares for his Grand Tour farewell at the Giro d'Italia
'Really try to experience everything you do and grab every opportunity that comes along' French rider tells his Picnic PostNL teammates -
La Vuelta Femenina favourites - Who can beat Demi Vollering in first Grand Tour of 2025?
FDJ-Suez are formidable but face competition from outside favourites Pauline-Ferrand-Prévot, Mavi Garcia and more -
Justin Peck and Jen Tavé win muddy Ukiah Mendo Gravel Epic in fourth round of Grasshopper Adventure Series
Tavé rode solo for most of the 76-mile contest to step up from second place finish last year -
'It's a bit of an obsession to reach 100 wins' - Alexander Kristoff to pass the baton to younger brother Felix Ørn-Kristoff and retire at close of 2025 season
Norwegian's 19-year-old sibling a stage winner in Tour de Bretagne this week
