Breakaways versus sprinters
A short stage follows the rest day as the race continues south through the Cévennes. Although rolling, there are no outstanding difficulties on today's route and that should benefit the sprinters. One factor that might come into play is the intense heat that can affect this region. Another might be the growing desire for teams that have not made an impact so far to do so on one of the two remaining stages before the race reaches the Pyrenees. Regardless of the heat of both the day and the competition, this should be a day dominated by the green jersey contenders.
Details -
Distance: 158 km
Highest point: 751m
Category: Lumpy
Sylwester Szmyd says...
"You don't look forward to these stages because you've everything to lose and nothing to gain. They're stressful days, and if the wind gets up, you might see echelons forming. It'll be a scrap to stay near the front, and this really isn't our terrain at all."
Stage map
Stage profile
-
'I think I'd prefer to win all three Grand Tours' – Jonas Vingegaard hints further at Giro d'Italia focus in 2026 despite Tour de France remaining the 'biggest objective'
Dane would be chasing a maiden victory on debut at the Italian Grand Tour if he can fit it into his schedule -
Best cycling base layers: The starting point for on bike comfort
The best cycling base layers are an essential foundation for optimal temperate regulation -
'As good as Merckx... Come on' – Belgian cycling legend calls it 'crazy' to consider Tadej Pogačar as greatest of all time
Roger De Vlaeminck delivers honest assessment of the stars of today's peloton, describes Evenepoel as 'arrogant' -
Would Tadej Pogačar win on a bike from 10 years ago? Luke Rowe says 'no chance'
'It's advanced too much'
