Mat Hayman's view
This stage normally involves a hard start getting out of town, and there could be crosswinds again. The finish into Victor Harbor can also be tricky. We've had a few editions of the race where this stage has provided some exposed sections. The climb at the end shouldn't break things up too much. Maybe some of the off-form European sprinters who can't handle the heat might struggle, but overall this should be decided by another bunch sprint.
It's a really tricky finish, though – especially the last kilometre. There are a couple of points where you need to be in the right position if you want to be in the running.
The last corner, which is still a long way from the finish line, is still key. You don't want to be first and you want at least one lead-out rider in front of you. When you nail the lead-out, you can make this one look easy, though. You just don't want things to get too messy.
-
Tulsa Tough leads familiar look of six one-day races for 2026 American Criterium Cup
Men's individual champion Maurice Ballerstedt returns to European racing and leaves door open for new winner in series with $140,000 combined prize purse -
Christmas gifts for cyclists in 2025: Present ideas they'll actually want
Check out our list of Christmas gift ideas for cyclists, it's full of top ideas and inspiration for your cycling friends and family -
'We're not even going to think about the idea' – RCS firmly against Tadej Pogačar's suggestion to switch Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España dates
Italian race organiser only open to a one week move into June to benefit from better weather and Italian national holiday -
A climber-friendly course that could get in the way of Elisa Longo Borghini's third title – Analysing the Giro d'Italia Women route
A lowkey start builds to a big crescendo with the Colle delle Finestre, a tough stage in the Dolomites, and a challenging uphill TT
