With the bunch nervy and lots of road furniture to contend with, this stage of regular twists and turns may not prove as straightforward as the pan-flat profile suggests. Surprisingly, the stage features the first two categorised climbs even though the highest point is only 70 metres above sea level.
The winner of the mountains jersey today will hold it until at least stage five, which will be a big carrot for the Dutch outfits and smaller teams, who'll be desperate to feature in the podium presentations. Expect frenetic sprints on both climbs, and for things to get even more frantic at the finish.
TOPICS
-
'A free mind equals fast legs' – How my mental state helped me wear the yellow jersey for two days at an unforgettable Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
In Luke Tuckwell's latest column for Cyclingnews, he recalls his memorable week in France, and how he went from tears in training to his first yellow jersey -
Tour de France prize money explained: What is at stake for the 2026 edition?
Over €2.5 million in prize money up for grabs this July, and plenty of ways to earn a slice of it -
American Criterium Cup: New Zealand riders sweep elite races at Downer Classic in Wisconsin and hold off series leaders in tight sprints
Bryony Botha and George Jackson win second stop of ACC and score titles across 11-day regional racing calendar at Tour of America's Dairyland -
Giant overhauls gravel range with two new bikes and a suite of gravel components
Just when we thought the gravel releases were over for the year, Giant has released a slew of new gravel products
