Wind likely factor in flat seaside stage
By Daniel Simms published
Drama expected on way to bunch finish
A salty sea air stage from the Old Port in Marseille across the plains of the Camargue to the heart of "French Florida", La Grande-Motte. The wind should play an essential role in the crossing of protected nature reserve of Camargue - a marshland with pink flamingos and wild horses. The leaders should be on their guard as not only a sea breeze could disturb their ride, but also the dreaded Mistral gale from the North could make for dangerous echelons in the peloton.
The regional capital of Marseille was on the first Tour de France programme in 1903 as the finish line of the 374 km stage that left Lyon. In a much more agreeable format, the Tour's last visit to the Phocean city, in 2007, gave Cédric Vasseur a chance to stand out in the final Tour de France of his career. Today, the flat terrain of the Camargue will surely see a sprinter raise his arms in La Grande-Motte.
Vaughters' views
Some teams will be up front, others will be caught out. It's usually impossible to bring back a split on strong crosswinds if the riders up front are strong and feel the death rattle of a few GC contenders behind.
The winner? Hard to say, but perhaps a sprint/drag race between strong men like Cancellara and Thor Hushovd.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
after your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59

Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
Tim Wellens joins UAE Team Emirates after decade at Lotto Soudal
Belgian agrees two-year deal to strengthen UAE Classics squad -
Bob Jungels signs for Bora-Hansgrohe
Luxembourg rider leaves AG2R after two rollercoaster seasons -
Sina Frei makes switch from MTB to road with SD Worx at Tour of Scandinavia
Swiss Specialized Factory rider to line up at six-day tour alongside Demi Vollering and Niamh Fisher-Black -
Tiesj Benoot reportedly sustains several fractures after training crash
Het Laatste Nieuws says cause and exact nature of injuries unclear but Jumbo-Visma rider not in life threatening position