The first time trial of this year's Tour comes earlier than usual, perhaps because of the absence of a prologue. The stage is also just over half the distance as usual, being just 29-kilometre in length. The stage route, as well as being short, is very flat so – weather permitting – speeds should be high. The stage should appeal to the specialists, but gaps should be small so none of the favourites for the overall classification will be able to take too much time out of their rivals.
The Tour has visited Cholet just twice before, the last time when Dutchman Jeroen Bliijlevens (TVM) out-sprinted Italian Nicola Minali (Riso Scotti) and Ján Svorada (Mapei-Bricobi). By picking up time bonuses throughout the stage, Australian Stuart O'Grady (then GAN, now CSC) took the first maillot jaune of his career. The town sits on the banks of the Moine river and is most famous for the production of linen fabrics.
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'It made news worldwide' - Jay Vine still dealing with pain after infamous kangaroo crash but back in action at Volta a Catalunya
Wrist pain management still required but Tour Down Under GC winner says he has 'come a long way' as he races in support of Almeida and McNulty -
As it happened: Experienced Dane is the fastest to the line on stage 2 of Volta a Catalunya 2026
Magnus Cort outpaced Noa Isidore and Francesco Busatto to take the win -
Volta a Catalunya: Magnus Cort sprints to stage 2 victory after peloton catches breakaway in final kilometre
Noa Isidore goes second and Francesco Busatto in third ahead of GC leader Godon -
Breathing support and extended hospital stay required as Debora Silvestri continues recovery from Milan-San Remo crash
Laboral Kutxa-Fundación Euskadi racer went over guardrail, fracturing five ribs and shoulder
