Paradise for the puncheurs
Another of Prudhomme's ploys is to attempt to put the race's major players under pressure on as many days as possible. Although of average length, this run into central Brittany could cause a surprise as the roads in the region are notoriously heavy, meandering and lumpy. That could mean splits in the bunch. More likely, though, are splits among the leaders on the 2km climb to the finish, which will be undertaken at extremely high speed. Once again, puncheurs like Gilbert and FDJ's Pierrick Fédrigo will in their element while the specialist sprinters will struggle.
TOPICS
-
'I think my season's over' - Lucas Bourgoyne misses momentum at American Criterium Cup with appendectomy
Former USPro criterium champion expects to miss final round of American Criterium Cup as he takes time off to heal from surgery -
Quinn Simmons, Luke Lamperti, Maggie Coles-Lyster and Kristen Faulkner among WorldTour riders confirmed for Philadelphia Cycling Classic
2016 elite women's winner Megan Guarnier makes return as co-director for CCB Kenetik women's squad -
How to watch Vuelta a España 2026 – Live streams and official broadcasters
All the ways you can watch or stream the 2026 Vuelta a España from wherever you are in the world, including free options -
Used bibs, £2 jerseys, and fake Rapha wares – Inside the wild west of buying second-hand cycling kit
Grabbing a bargain, or wasting your time? Marianna Hunt delves into the increasingly popular world of second-hand cycling kit, where the steals are, and how to avoid getting scammed
