This stage pays homage to one of the greatest exploits in Tour history. In 1969, on a stage that crossed the same four passes as today's, race leader Eddy Merckx launched a solo attack at the foot of the Aubisque and rode away to the finish in Mourenx, just west of Pau, arriving almost eight minutes clear of his rivals.
It would be astounding to see anyone attempt to copy the Belgian's incredible ride, especially given the long run-in to the finish.
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Giro d'Italia GC analysis: Ayuso makes big psychological step in overall fight against Roglič, with race still wide open
Spaniard takes maiden Grand Tour stage win on Slovenian's favoured terrain, with just four seconds separating them after first mountain test -
The current GC standings at the Giro d'Italia 2025 after stage 7
The general classification contenders emerge on the Tagliacozzo mountain finish -
2025 Giro d'Italia stage 8 preview - Late 'muri' climbs in the Le Marche hills challenge teams in GC positions
Giulianova to Castelraimondo covers 197km on Saturday -
After crash, Richard Carapaz scores 'a big point in my favour' in opening Giro d'Italia mountain test
2019 Giro winner finishes in front group of GC challengers, tenth overall
