Another of the Tour's early stages for the sprinters, there are plenty of green jersey points on offer over a stage with only one Cat 4 climb - it's mostly flat, fast riding, and a day for one of the fast men to enjoy some time in the yellow jersey. In 2004 it was Thomas Voeckler who spent 10 days as the darling of France in the yellow jersey over the opening stages. The route sweeps further north and heads closer to its entry into Germany, with plenty to look at throughout the scenic Loir-et-Cher region - not that the riders will have much time for that, as average speeds of around 40-45km/h will prevent most from enjoying the sights. Although on a different route last year, Cofidis' Australian rider Staurt O'Grady took stage 5 in 2004 in the wet, but in dry weather this year it will most likely come down to another showdown between McEwen, Cooke, Hushovd and Boonen, and anyone else who wants to join the party.
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Philadelphia Cycling Classic confirms seven WorldTour teams in men's and women's fields for Manayunk Wall challenge - North American Roundup
Tour de Bloom begins six days of racing in Pacific Northwest on May 14 while Team Medellín-EPM brings Brayan Sanchez and Óscar Sevilla for Gran Premio NYC on May 17 -
'There is already something going on in the bunch' - Threat of illness after cold, wet Giro d'Italia stage 5 more concerning than 6:22 deficit for Visma-Lease a Bike
Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe expect Visma to keep pink jersey in reach with Friday's stage to Blockhaus on the horizon -
'We knew there would be fireworks' - Long, solo pursuit through rain proves too much for Giulio Ciccone to defend Giro d'Italia lead
Italian isolated in front group, loses over seven minutes to new maglia rosa Afonso Eulálio -
'I don't know how I feel, it's too crazy' - Afonso Eulálio takes Giro d'Italia pink jersey after topsy-turvy stage 5 breakaway
Portuguese racer crashes late on, loses sprint, but takes the overall lead
