Two huge cyclo-cross races this weekend: UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup in Flamanville and the Telenet Superprestige in Growth – Studies, outcomes, rider’s ideas and video.
Johan Museeuw thinks it is going to be troublesome for Remco Evenepoel to win the Tour, Christian Prudhomme disagrees – TOP STORY.
Rider information: Tom Pidcock to overlook the Flemish Classics, Richard Plugge talks 2024, Tom Pidcock going for Olympic MTB/highway mixture, Visma | Lease a Bike need Cian Uijtdebroeks, Liane Lippert will likely be out of motion for 2 weeks, Franck Alaphilippe leaves Soudal Fast-Step, UAE Workforce Emirates rider caught being towed by a truck, Olympic time trial dangerous for Evenepoel, good for Van Aert, Egan Bernal’s youthful brother to race in Europe, Pim Ronhaar to be a stagiaire with Lidl-Trek, Toon Aerts finds a group for when his doping suspension ends and Colombian Marco Tulio Suesca checks optimistic for EPO.
Workforce information: Decathlon AG2R desires to keep away from relegation from the WorldTour, Movistar signal Davide Cimolai, Imanol Erviti to be a INEOS Grenadiers DS and there’s nonetheless a whole lot of WorldTour riders with out a contract for 2024.
Race information: Benidorm desires Wout van Aert of their World Cup cyclo-cross and the Grand Départ 2025: The Tour de France within the land of the giants.
Monday EUROTRASH cyclo-cross espresso time.
TOP STORY: Johan Museeuw Thinks it Might be Tough for Remco Evenepoel to Win the Tour, Christian Prudhomme Disagrees
Remco Evenepoel seems to be making his debut within the Tour de France subsequent 12 months, however can the 23 year-old Belgian compete for the general victory? Johan Museeuw has his doubts, whereas Tour boss, Christian Prudhomme, is extra optimistic.
“It will likely be troublesome to win the Tour,” stated Museeuw on the podcast of Geraint Thomas: The Geraint Thomas Biking Membership. “For my part he’s now excellent at one-day races. He wins these races in a giant means. Watch him win Liège-Bastogne-Liège, watch him win the Clasica San Sebastian… He has the power to win the Tour, he has it in him, however I’m undecided it’s going to occur.”
“I all the time say: riders who win the Tour are actually particular folks. There are possibly three or 4 riders who can win the Tour. Previously it was Chris Froome, Bradley Wiggins, you…,” referring to Thomas. “And at present there are Tadej Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard. However there are only a few riders within the peloton who go to the Tour and may say they’ve a 90 to 95% likelihood of profitable. For the time being I feel Remco has a 60% likelihood.”
Museeuw thinks Evenepoel’s possibilities can nonetheless improve sooner or later. “If he goes to a different group, he has a greater likelihood. He’s a phenomenon, I like him, however I’ve to be trustworthy: it’s not that simple to win the Tour de France.”
Thomas has a whole lot of confidence in Evenepoel. “I feel he can win the Tour,” stated the 2018 Tour winner. “Fast-Step is getting higher, though the Grand Excursions usually are not but their power. However he’s nonetheless very younger.”
Christian Prudhomme has additionally spoken about Remco Evenepoel’s possibilities within the Tour de France. The Tour boss doesn’t wish to write off Evenepoel for the 2024 Tour: “Clearly Vingegaard and Pogačar would be the huge favourites. However Evenepoel does have that X-factor, that surprising and good factor. He can all of the sudden flip issues the other way up,” he stated to Sporza at an ASO press convention concerning the Grand Départ of the 2025 Tour de France, amongst others. “He can win. However what is definite is that he’ll depart his mark on the race and subsequently additionally on the general victory.”
Prudhomme was notably impressed by the resilience that Evenepoel displayed within the Vuelta a España. The Belgian cracked on the thirteenth stage to the Col du Tourmalet, however gained two extra levels after. “It struck me how he was capable of bounce again after a setback. I assumed he would quit, however we did the other. He made it a spectacle along with his assaults.”
Evenepoel: Can he, can’t he?
UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup – Males Flamanville 2023
Eli Iserbyt gained the Flamanville spherical of the World Cup on Sunday. The Belgian of Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal was in a battle with Pim Ronhaar for a very long time, however rode away from the Dutchman on the penultimate lap after which soloed to victory. Lars van der Haar got here second and Ronhaar was third.
The second race of the weekend in Flamanville, France had an excellent discipline, in comparison with Saturday’s Superprestige cross in Growth. The Dutch cyclo-cross riders Lars van der Haar and Pim Ronhaar have been current. Eli Iserbyt, Thibau Nys, Michael Vanthourenhout and Laurens Sweeck have been all on the beginning line within the north of France. Within the first lap the tempo was already excessive and the sphere was pulled into a skinny line. The Swiss rider, Kevin Kuhn, was chargeable for the velocity of the opening lap, however the prime riders have been nonetheless to make their transfer. A type of prime riders, Joris Nieuwenhuis, slipped on a bend the place Sanne Cant crashed within the ladies’s race. The winner in Growth was capable of proceed.
Happily for Baloise Trek Lions, Ronhaar and Van der Haar have been nonetheless up on the entrance. Ronhaar, the most effective within the World Cup races in Dendermonde and Dublin this season, once more had an excellent begin and first lap. The Dutchman made a pleasant hole on the primary group of pursuers. Ronhaar’s lead shortly elevated to about 10 seconds, however Eli Iserbyt wasn’t going to let him get away and put in a tough chase. The chief of the World Cup slowly managed to cut back the lead. With three laps to go the distinction was solely 7 seconds.
The stage was set for a battle between Iserbyt and Ronhaar for the victory in Flamanville. Iserbyt put Ronhaar beneath stress a number of instances with some sharp assaults, however the powerful Dutchman wouldn’t be dropped. About 15 seconds behind the 2 leaders, Nieuwenhuis and Van der Haar fought for the final podium place. Within the penultimate lap, Ronhaar lastly cracked beneath the pressure of Iserbyt, who managed to journey away from Ronhaar and began the ultimate lap with a lead of 20 seconds for his second victory within the World Cup of this season. He additionally took his earlier World Cup victory in France, Troyes. Van der Haar caught and dropped his teammate Ronhaar within the finale and the Dutch champion completed second. Ronhaar held on for third place, simply forward of his teammate Nieuwenhuis.
Race winner, Eli Iserbyt (Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal): “I needed to battle my means again to the top of the race after a really dangerous begin. Nonetheless, after about thirty minutes I discovered the suitable strains. I’m completely happy that I used to be capable of develop within the race and end so effectively. I used to be caught at about fifteen seconds for 2 laps. Lars (Van der Haar) and Joris (Nieuwenhuis) did their factor, however I used to be stimulated to journey even sooner. I’ve to thank them for that. As soon as I joined Pim, I put a whole lot of stress. I rode a bit of sooner and I stored gaining time on the beams. Within the forest I additionally rode barely higher strains. This manner I may make a distinction. I attempted to keep up freshness through the week. I get a whole lot of massages and sometimes go to the physiotherapist. My spouse additionally does lots at house and meaning I can begin the weekend a bit of more energizing. Moreover, you often must sacrifice a day’s victory for the sake of a rating. I wish to win one cross each weekend. The plan was to triumph right this moment. I’m subsequently very happy.”
2nd, Lars van der Haar (Baloise Trek Lions): “Within the first lap it was troublesome for me to get into my rhythm. Happily, in some unspecified time in the future I got here again to affix Eli. I wished to present Pim as many seconds as doable, however I couldn’t constantly journey for Eli. Eli was finally the strongest. I couldn’t observe and needed to get well for a lap, however I felt sturdy afterwards. I’m pleased with my second place. (And dodging the geese?) I’ve had to try this for canines earlier than, however I haven’t skilled geese but… Effectively, these animals can’t do a lot about it both. I’m leaving on Tuesday with Pim (for a coaching camp). It is rather essential to regain health and freshness. Now we primarily journey on character and health, however quickly some very contemporary guys (Van der Poel, Van Aert and Pidcock) will likely be added. I’ll now have to coach very exhausting to have the ability to sustain with them.”
third, Pim Ronhaar (Baloise Trek Lions): “I didn’t really feel excellent right this moment, however my fundamental tempo was very excessive. I clocked quick lap instances from the beginning. To my very own shock, as a result of I had a little bit of again ache and didn’t have a lot energy. Nonetheless, I wished to push on after Eli’s dangerous begin. When he was on my wheel after three laps, I felt the temper. I attempted to observe him, however it was over. On the finish I didn’t actually really feel good anymore and that was additionally a tough passage. Eli was merely the strongest and I’m completely happy that I nonetheless completed on the rostrum right here, as a result of I severely stopped within the final two laps. We at the moment are going to calm down for 2 weeks and practice exhausting, in order that we will deal with it once more afterwards.”
UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup – Males Flamanville End result:
1. Eli Iserbyt (Bel) Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal in 1:00:09
2. Lars van der Haar (Ned) Baloise Trek Lions at 0:13
3. Pim Ronhaar (Ned) Baloise Trek Lions at 0:47
4. Joris Nieuwenhuis (Ned) Baloise Trek Lions at 0:54
5. Niels Vandeputte (Bel) Alpecin-Deceuninck at 1:23
6. Kevin Kuhn (Sui) Circus-Reuz-Technord at 1:36
7. Emiel Verstrynge (Bel) Crelan-Corendon at 1:47
8. Ryan Kamp (Ned) Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal at 2:04
9. Jens Adams (Bel) Athletes for Hope at 2:16
10. Joran Wyseure (Bel) Crelan-Corendon at 2:31
Flamanville’23
UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup – Ladies Flamanville 2023
Lucinda Model took her second victory of the season. The Dutch rider of Baloise Trek Lions clearly proved to be the strongest within the Flamanville World Cup race on Sunday. Model rode away from the opposition within the second lap after which soloed to victory. Marie Schreiber got here second, Leonie Bentveld was third.
For the second cross race of the weekend in Flamanville, some prime riders among the many ladies determined to not journey to France. The riders who have been at first confronted a quick race in a French meadow. First and second within the cross in Growth, World champion Fem van Empel and Puck Pieterse, weren’t there and so different riders noticed their likelihood. The most effective begin went to Marie Schreiber. The Luxembourger is understood for her quick begin and was additionally the primary onto the grass in Flamanville. The 2 prime Dutch riders, Lucinda Model and Shirin van Anrooij, didn’t fare as effectively. Model, who determined to overlook the cyclo-cross in Growth on Saturday, managed catch up shortly, however her teammate Van Anrooij, who clearly had problem moving into her rhythm, was in hassle. Schreiber was nonetheless within the lead, with Denise Betsema following in her wake.
The variations have been nonetheless shut after the primary lap. Schreiber was the primary to cross the end line, adopted by Betsema, Model, Annemarie Worst and the Canadian Maghalie Rochette. Leonie Bentveld and Manon Bakker additionally managed to restrict their loss. After 10 minutes of racing, Van Anrooij was already half a minute behind and will now not race for the win. Model had one thing else up her sleeve and was clearly gaining steam. The World champion in Ostend took management within the second lap and made a crossing to Schreiber very quickly. The distinction had already elevated to fifteen seconds at the start of the third lap and this turned out to be an indication for the others. Model was to be too good for the competitors.
After a powerful begin, Schreiber slowed down and had Denise Betsema and Leonie Bentveld, each of Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal, on her heels. Bentveld nonetheless had some reserves and made the leap to Schreiber within the penultimate lap. Nonetheless, the Luxembourg rider proved to be notably powerful and continued to place stress on Bentveld. Chief Model had now began the fifth and last lap. The lead over Schreiber on the end line was 20 seconds and the skilled Dutchwoman wouldn’t be caught within the last lap. Every week after her victory in Dublin, Model recorded a second consecutive victory within the World Cup. After a powerful last lap, Schreiber crossed the road in second place, whereas the 19 year-old Bentveld rode to a podium place in a prime cross for the primary time. Betsema completed simply off the rostrum in fourth place, however was the second rider from Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal within the prime 5. The highest 5 was accomplished by Shirin van Anrooij, after she needed to journey a catch-up race within the second half of the cross.
Race winner, Lucinda Model (Baloise Trek Lions): “Though I didn’t really feel pretty much as good right this moment as final week, it was nonetheless adequate. I didn’t have the circulation of final week (in Dublin) and I additionally had a much less good begin. I shot off my pedal. I additionally made a whole lot of small errors alongside the way in which. Fortunately I used to be capable of present sufficient energy on the ability strips. I used to be capable of make a niche after which maintain it. I knew I needed to stay affected person after my poor begin. Happily, I used to be capable of transfer up once more pretty shortly. The perfect monitor had turn out to be a deep groove. It labored just a few instances, however as soon as it didn’t go effectively. I feel I had a stone in my pedal. That just about went improper and it may have been even worse, however fortunately it ended effectively. I’ll wait and see the way it all goes through the Christmas interval.”
2nd, Marie Schreiber (SD Worx): “It’s actually unbelievable. It was undoubtedly a purpose to be on the rostrum someday. This was a extremely nice day. Every thing went in keeping with plan. I’m actually very completely happy. It was vital to journey at my very own tempo. I couldn’t observe Lucinda and made just a few extra errors within the first two laps, however I managed to adapt. I used to be capable of preserve my second place. I simply began a bit of slower right this moment. I typically used to get out of the beginning blocks too shortly. I used to be typically too motivated. Now I realise that after a quick begin I simply must decelerate a bit. To have some power left for the ultimate. I simply hope to have a constant season. The World Cup continues to be coming, however that may take a while.”
third, Leonie Bentveld (Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal): “That is very stunning. I had dreamt of this, however definitely not anticipated it. I felt very sturdy right this moment. A 12 months in the past I took the general victory within the Junior World Cup right here, in Flamanville. So I’ve good recollections of this place. The course additionally fits me and I used to be actually trying ahead to this cross. That turned out very effectively. Within the third lap I got here to Schreiber, however I used to be too pleased with a 3rd place. I maybe rode a bit of too safely, since I used to be additionally engaged on the chief’s jersey within the U23 World Cup. I additionally seen through the cross that I used to be prepared for every week in Spain, after a troublesome first half of the season.”
UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup – Ladies Flamanville End result:
1. Lucinda Model (Ned) Baloise Trek Lions in 50:05
2. Marie Schreiber (Lux) SD Worx at 0:20
3. Leonie Bentveld (Ned) Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal 0:30
4. Denise Betsema (Ned) Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal at 0:45
5. Shirin van Anrooij (Ned) Baloise Trek Lions at 0:55
6. Annemarie Worst (Ned) Cyclocross Reds at 0:58
7. Manon Bakker (Ned) Crelan-Corendon at 0:59
8. Inge van der Heijden (Ned) Crelan-Corendon at 1:17
9. Hélene Clauzel (Fra) AS Bike Racing at 1:21
10. Amandine Fouquenet (Fra) Arkéa-B&B Motels at 1:29.
Flamanville’23
Telenet Superprestige – Males Growth 2023
Joris Nieuwenhuis gained the Telenet Superprestige cyclo-cross in Growth on Saturday. The Dutchman was quickly within the lead solo, however Cameron Mason stored him in his sights till the ultimate lap. The British rider couldn’t pull the Dutchman again and Nieuwenhuis took the victory. Eli Iserbyt was third.
As a result of the Flamanville World Cup race in France was on Sunday, some riders missed out the Superprestige in Growth. Amongst these absent have been Lars van der Haar and Pim Ronhaar. Joris Nieuwenhuis and Thibau Nys have been current for Baloise Trek Lions, however with Eli Iserbyt and Michael Vanthourenhout, Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal regarded to have the strongest group.
The quickest begin didn’t come from a rider of the massive groups. Jens Adams of Athletes for Hope was the primary onto the grass. He made a pleasant hole, however Nys managed to shut him down midway by way of the opening lap. Cameron Mason, Iserbyt and Nieuwenhuis have been additionally there. Nieuwenhuis put the others beneath heavy stress within the second lap after which broke away. Mason was the closest, Nys and Iserbyt adopted a bit of additional again. After three of the 9 laps, Nieuwenhuis had a 7 second lead over the British rider, whereas Nys and Iserbyt have been 29 seconds behind. On the next lap, Mason got here 1 second nearer to the chief, however the different riders misplaced an increasing number of time on Nieuwenhuis. Iserbyt, Vanthourenhout and Niels Vandeputte, Nys had dropped out, have been 49 seconds behind after 5 laps.
The distinction between Mason and Nieuwenhuis fluctuated between 5 and 10 seconds for a very long time. At the beginning of the ultimate lap, the state of affairs had not modified and Mason now adopted at 9 seconds. Nieuwenhuis nonetheless had sufficient within the tank to increase the lead and safe the victory, to win his second Superprestige race in a row. Mason needed to accept second place, as Iserbyt managed to interrupt away from Vanthourenhout and Vandeputte for third. The Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal rider held the general lead within the Superprestige.
Race winner, Joris Nieuwenhuis (Baloise Trek Lions): “The reason for this success? However one factor: my decrease again is holding up effectively. All of the races that I actually didn’t race effectively have been races the place my decrease again harm lots. I’ve the sensation that we now have now actually solved that downside. I didn’t essentially work on it throughout my coaching camp, however earlier than that. Throughout my camp I made up for a coaching hole that I had suffered once I grew to become very sick simply earlier than the season. We stated we’d improve that once more through the season. That turned out effectively. Within the first lap I already felt that I used to be excellent. It got here to a little bit of a standstill and I do know that I can proceed to journey effectively for a whole cross, if I can journey my very own strains and use my power, as a substitute of regularly loud night breathing. So I assumed I’d simply begin it and see who follows. It went very effectively instantly. I instantly had an excellent focus. ON one hand, I particularly really feel that my time on the highway has made me extra constant all through the season. Alternatively, if I look again on the time earlier than I rode on the highway, this was additionally the way in which to win a cross. Simply race effectively from begin to end.”
2nd, Cameron Mason (Cyclocross Reds): “It was enjoyable. I walked to the cross right this moment, I can nearly see my condominium from right here. It was additionally an important race. Fairly a lonely race. I attempted to shut the hole to Joris, however I used to be at my max. However it’s good to take a podium place once more in such a giant race. I’m one step nearer to victory. I arrived final night time, so I didn’t journey the course. However I generally run right here throughout my working coaching. It’s cool to see a race coming to the place you reside. It might have appeared extra dramatic on tv than it truly was. It was a bit sluggish movement. There have been stretches the place he was higher, then laps the place I used to be higher. However I used to be by no means on the wheel. Till you’re on the wheel, it’s by no means actually a wrestle. It was extra of a time trial. I did my finest, however the strongest gained. I’ll strive once more subsequent time. I do know it solely takes one mistake from him. So I didn’t cease believing, however ultimately I got here second.”
third, Eli Iserbyt (Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal): “I used to be additionally a bit nervous about tomorrow. If I had been concerned from the beginning, extra may need been doable. However I simply couldn’t observe at the start. Then it’s time to consider it, proper? However hey, you are taking as a lot danger as you need. I didn’t take too many dangers. It was a really good circuit, tremendous troublesome. I feel that they had a pleasant race on the entrance, so it was a profitable day. I do certainly put some stress on myself, however effectively, I generally carry out fairly effectively beneath stress. So sure, the World Cup was a barely greater purpose this weekend, as a result of the factors depend ensures {that a} first place there’s tremendous vital. I’m trying ahead to tomorrow. It’s a course tailor-made to my wants, so I’m curious. I’ve a resort 5 hours from right here, so the journey will likely be doable the conventional.”
Telenet Superprestige – Males Growth End result:
1. Joris Nieuwenhuis (Ned) Baloise Trek Lions in 57:32
2. Cameron Mason (GB) Cyclocross Reds at 0:10
3. Eli Iserbyt (Bel) Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal at 0:52
4. Niels Vandeputte (Bel) Alpecin-Deceuninck at 1:05
5. Michael Vanthourenhout (Bel) Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal at 1:11
6. Thibau Nys (Bel) Baloise Trek Lions at 1:32
7. Witse Meeussen (Bel) Crelan-Corendon at 1:32
8. Jens Adams (Bel) Athletes for Hope at 1:41
9. Thijs Aerts (Bel) Circus-ReUz-Technord at 1:48
10. Jente Michels (Bel) Alpecin-Deceuninck at 1:51.
Growth’23:
Telenet Superprestige – Ladies Growth 2023
Fem van Empel has maintained her undefeated run by profitable the Superprestige in Growth. She made her transfer within the second lap after which soloed to victory. Puck Pieterse completed second, Annemarie Worst third.
The Superprestige spherical in Growth had a powerful discipline for the ladies’s race. Whereas Shirin van Anrooij made her return to cyclo-cross, Fem van Empel and Puck Pieterse have been additionally at first. So far as the massive names have been involved, solely Lucinda Model (saving herself for the Flamanville World Cup) and Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado (sickness) have been absent.
Pieterse obtained off to begin, not like Van Empel. The World champion had hassle moving into her pedals and needed to watch from additional again as Pieterse was the primary off the highway. Van Empel shortly moved as much as second place, however on the slippery course she fell when dismounting. Pieterse then went away on her personal. There was no sight of Van Anrooij, one of many riders who was held up by an early crash. It was Denise Betsema who got here by way of third after the primary lap, simply forward of Inge van der Heijden, Annemarie Worst and Kata Blanka Vas. After a protracted chase, Van Anrooij obtained near the group, however would ultimately end ninth.
The distinction between Pieterse and Van Empel was 8 seconds after one lap. However after the Fenix-Deceunink rider made a mistake, Van Empel shortly returned within the second of six laps. When Pieterse fell on a descent, it was the World champion who was now alone within the lead. The Jumbo-Visma rider then took extra time. On the finish of the lap she had a 20 second lead over her first pursuer. Half-way by way of the race the distinction had elevated to 43 seconds. After that, the lead solely elevated and so it was clear earlier than the ultimate lap that Van Empel would take her ninth victory of the season. Pieterse needed to accept second place. Within the battle for third, it gave the impression to be between Annemarie Worst, Inge van der Heijden and Kata Clean Vas, however Vlas was dropped. The 2 Dutch riders fought it out for the final podium step. Worst got here out on prime. The Cyclocross Reds rider is now additionally the chief of the Superprestige sequence.
Race winner, Fem van Empel (Jumbo-Visma): “I felt I used to be missing a little bit of sharpness earlier than the beginning”, Van Empel stated. “That confirmed within the errors I made on the primary lap. So, the little crash was wake-up name to choose myself up. I made a decision to stick with Pieterse for some time after closing the hole, however quickly discovered myself alone. The next laps have been flawless, and I’m pleased with that. It’s weird. I’m thrilled with the way in which issues are going this season. I work very exhausting for it each week. Not solely the coaching is vital, but additionally the remainder and the surroundings. It’s good to see all that effort rewarded on the weekend.”
2nd, Puck Pieterse (Fenix-Deceuninck): “This was actually a power course. If the distinction is so huge, that may be a disgrace for me. Fem simply races rather well. It’s that straightforward. She is admittedly flying this season. She proves that when once more right this moment. If I simply preserve doing my factor, I can actually work in direction of that stage once more. You noticed in the summertime that I used to be stronger, now Fem is stronger once more. There’s undoubtedly nonetheless hearth in me. It’s good to be working in direction of one thing. It’s a disgrace that Lucinda (Model) and Ceylin (del Carmen Alvarado) weren’t there right this moment. They may have ridden there with me, or possibly earlier than, or with Fem. We haven’t gotten that image very clearly but. However you’ll be able to see that I used to be now in no man’s land for all the race, as a result of behind me it was a battle for third place. But it surely was circuit to journey at your personal tempo. I attempted to journey new strains all through the race, to see the place I can go sooner. Should you now not take part for the win, you may have time to work on that. I’m trying ahead to the subsequent race.”
Telenet Superprestige – Ladies Growth End result:
1. Fem van Empel (Ned) Jumbo-Visma in 43:27
2. Puck Pieterse (Ned) Fenix-Deceuninck at 1:04
3. Annemarie Worst (Ned) Cyclocross Reds at 1:59
4. Inge van der Heijden (Ned) Crelan-Corendon at 2:07
5. Aniek van Alphen (Ned) Cyclocross Reds at 2:15
6. Denise Betsema (Ned) Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal at 2:18
7. Kata Blanka Vas (Hun) SD Worx at 2:34
8. Sanne Cant (Bel) Crelan-Corendon at 2:44
9. Shirin van Anrooij (Ned) Baloise Trek Lions at 2:55
10. Alicia Franck (Bel) De Ceuster-Bonache at 3:11.
Growth’23:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVIuvVD0IaM
Tom Pidcock to Miss the Flemish Classics
Tom Pidcock has ten cyclo-cross races this winter, however he’s planning his subsequent highway season. The all-rounder was at first of a number of Flemish spring classics this 12 months, however Pidcock seems to be having a special 2024 season.
Kurt Bogaerts, sports activities director with INEOS Grenadiers and Pidcock’s private coach, stated to Het Nieuwsblad when requested if Pidcock wouldn’t be driving the Flemish Classics: “That’s the intention. Though that’s not but 100% sure. I feel we’re heading within the path of the Ardennes Classics with Tom.”
“Should you take part in all Flemish races, you’re restricted by way of excursions that you would be able to contest. If you wish to do greater than participate in a stage race à la the Volta ao Algarve and, for instance, compete in Paris-Good, then you must begin slicing again in your program,” Bogaerts factors out the issue.
Final season Pidcock mixed the cobbled and hilly Classics. Within the Flemish spring races he didn’t actually do a lot, other than a fifth place in Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. Within the Amstel Gold and Liège-Bastogne-Liège he took a 3rd and second place.
No Flemish cobbles for Pidcock in 2024?
Richard Plugge: “Wout’s flat tire in Paris-Roubaix? That’s not dangerous luck and shouldn’t occur once more.”
How can Jumbo-Visma have a greater 2024 season than its report breaking 2023? Workforce supervisor Richard Plugge spoke to Het Laatste Nieuws about how the group primarily desires to set itself new targets and put together itself even higher for the Tour. “The drawback that we now have gained a lot this 12 months is that individuals are copying us.”
Plugge realises that 2023 was an important 12 months. “Going larger than this 12 months will likely be nearly unattainable, if solely as a result of it has by no means occurred {that a} group has gained the three Grand Excursions in a row. We’ll set new targets for ourselves and they are going to be totally different than this 12 months. However no much less difficult. And it’ll nonetheless be on the prime stage.”
The group supervisor additionally stays important concerning the targets that haven’t been achieved. “Lots went proper final season, however just a few issues didn’t go effectively. We ask ourselves: what can we do higher than final 12 months? The query is how we will have simply as profitable a 12 months in 2024 as in 2023, with maybe one or two fewer Grand Excursions gained.”
Within the classics, the group gained all the things till the vital monuments, the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix: “We have a look at what went improper there. Wout van Aert suffered a puncture on the Carrefour de l’Arbre. We don’t see a puncture as dangerous luck. We simply have to verify it may’t occur. If Wout doesn’t have a puncture, he’ll most likely win Paris-Roubaix. Getting a puncture is just not dangerous luck.”
“What we now have already gotten out of it’s that we now have to pay much more consideration to tools to stop us from having a puncture or working into issues by way of tools. It’s very simple to say: we’re unfortunate, that’s it. However that’s not how we’re wired. We have a look at the place we now have affect and we have a look at how we will stop that. That doesn’t imply that we are going to stop it, however we do wish to exclude it as a lot as doable.”
The group should reinvent itself, in keeping with Plugge. “That applies to everybody, together with Wout. The drawback that we now have gained a lot this 12 months is that individuals copy us. Jonas Vingegaard additionally has to see how he and the group can do higher within the Tour subsequent 12 months. As a result of Pogačar will arm himself in another way. And all of the sudden we now have Primoz Roglič as an opponent, which implies we must go to the Tour in another way and higher.”
New goals for Plugge:
Tom Pidcock Going for an Olympic Mixture
Tom Pidcock hopes to repeat his mountain bike Olympic title subsequent 12 months, however the 24 year-old Briton doesn’t solely give attention to mountain biking. The intention is that Pidcock may even take part within the Olympic highway race in Paris.
This was introduced by Kurt Bogaerts to Het Nieuwsblad. The versatile rider will first give attention to the Tour de France in the summertime, adopted by the Olympic Video games in Paris. Pidcock hopes to efficiently defend his Olympic MTB title on the Video games, however that’s not all. “The intention is for Tom to take part in each mountain biking and highway race in Paris,” Bogaerts outlined. “His ambition is Olympic gold once more. The highway race is a bit more difficult, however it’s factor that the mountain biking is already over. The explosiveness of that self-discipline can turn out to be useful within the highway race.”
Pidcock might be not the one rider who will put together for this difficult Olympic mixture, as a result of Mathieu van der Poel can be enjoying with the concept of mixing the mountain bike race and highway race in Paris. Nationwide coaches Koos Moerenhout and Gerben de Knegt beforehand talked concerning the dilemma with WielerFlits.
The Olympic cross nation mountain bike race is scheduled for Monday, July 29the 2024. The highway race follows 5 days in a while Saturday, August third.
MTB and highway Olympics for Pidcock:
Visma | Lease a Bike Need Cian Uijtdebroeks
Regardless of his contract with BORA-hansgrohe, the way forward for Cian Uijtdebroeks stays unsure in the meanwhile. It was beforehand introduced that INEOS Grenadiers and Lidl-Trek are amongst these , but additionally Jumbo-Visma desires the proficient Belgian.
“We’re taken with Cian. We have been already like that when he was nonetheless a junior,” acknowledged group supervisor Richard Plugge in dialog with HLN. “We already spoke to him then. However he nonetheless has a contract.” A transfer by Uijtdebroeks earlier than 2024 will likely be unlikely, as a result of Plugge’s group already full. “By no means say by no means, however: no, there will likely be nobody else.”
Uijtdebroeks was very profitable this 12 months with BORA-hansgrohe, however the Belgian was not all the time pleased with the group and there have been rumours that Uijtdebroeks would possibly wish to depart. “Would I stick with the group till subsequent 12 months? I’m not going to reply that. I’ve no touch upon these issues in the intervening time,” he lately stated.
Uijtdebroeks to vary group?
Liane Lippert Will Be Out of Motion for Two Weeks On account of a Stress Fracture
Liane Lippert won’t be able to journey her bike for some time. The 25 year-old Movistar rider will likely be out of motion for one to 2 weeks because of a stress fracture. Lippert suffered the harm whereas working.
A typical overuse harm throughout working is a stress fracture, also called a fatigue fracture. Stress fractures can happen in a number of locations within the physique, however primarily happen within the foot because of overuse of a foot bone. Lippert stated in a podcast that she is not going to contact the bike in the meanwhile, however that she will resume her preparation for the brand new highway season after about two weeks. The German champion has been one performing effectively for a number of years. Final season. Lippert not solely gained the German championship for the second consecutive time, but additionally gained levels within the Tour de France Femmes, the Tour de Romandie and Tre Valli Varesine. She was additionally second within the Flèche Wallonne, third within the Brabantse Pijl, seventh in Strade Bianche and eighth in Dwars door Vlaanderen.
Liane Lippert out for 2 weeks with a Stress Fracture:
Franck Alaphilippe Leaves Soudal Fast-Step
Franck Alaphilippe is not going to be employed as a coach with Soudal Fast-Step in 2024. Julian Alaphilippe’s uncle was not given a contract with the Belgian WorldTeam for the subsequent season. Franck wasn’t stunned, as a result of in keeping with him there have been tensions between Julian and group supervisor Patrick Lefevere.
“I sort of noticed it coming,” stated Franck Alaphilippe in dialog with CyclismActu. “There was already a primary sign with all the things that occurred surrounding the merger between Jumbo-Visma and Soudal Fast-Step. As my contract expired, I discovered myself in a troublesome state of affairs. When the merger didn’t undergo, I used to be nonetheless undecided. However I dared to hope.”
It was a useless hope, because it turned out. “After the merger points, there have been tensions between Patrick Lefevere and Julian, which once more made my state of affairs a bit unsure. So I wasn’t actually stunned once I heard that I couldn’t keep.”
Franck Alaphilippe has been with Patrick Lefevere’s group since 2020. “It was an distinctive expertise,” he seems again on his 4 seasons with the group. “Being absolutely a part of the group allowed me to satisfy different coaches and focus on coaching strategies with them. I used to be additionally capable of observe different high-level riders. It was an excellent expertise.”
Subsequent 12 months Franck wish to work as a coach for one more group. “However as a result of I heard late that I used to be not renewed (finish of October/starting of November), that’s difficult. Different groups have already assembled their teaching employees. I hope to discover a group once more in 2025.”
Within the meantime, Franck might stay the private coach of his nephew Julian. “I will likely be his coach till the top of December. Discussions are at present underway with the group and Julian for the longer term. What is definite is that I’ll by no means abandon him. So if the group provides him the chance to proceed with me… I’ve already spoken to a sports activities director from the group and he thinks it’s the finest answer for Julian and me if I proceed to coach Julian.”
Franck now not with Soudal Fast-Step, however possibly with Julian Alaphilippe:
UAE Workforce Emirates Rider Caught being Towed by a Truck
A video of UAE Workforce Emirates rider, Felix Groß has appeared on social media. Within the video we see that the German, who shouldn’t be confused along with his (quickly to be ex) teammate Felix Großschartner, maintain on to a transferring truck. Workforce supervisor José Antonio ‘Matxin’ Fernández has disapproved of his rider’s motion on X (Twitter).
“Deplorable and unacceptable,” Matxin wrote about Groß’s behaviour. The 25 year-old rider, who joined the group as a stagiaire in mid-2021, is not going to be driving for the group subsequent 12 months. He has dropped right down to the Continental Rad-Web Oßwald group. Groß has a contract with UAE Emirates till the top of the 12 months, so he’s nonetheless driving the UAE package.
Matxin emphasises that it’s Groß, not Felix Großschartner. Initially, the Austrian’s title was talked about within the video. “Make it clear that it’s not Felix Großschartner, however the German Felix Groß, who will now not race for us in 2024,” the Spaniard makes clear. “That doesn’t imply that what he does is just not deplorable.”
UAE Workforce Emirates’ Felix Groß was caught hanging onto the again of a truck whereas coaching ♂️
( @visconti_es) pic.twitter.com/GGEsorLYSw
— Eurosport (@eurosport) December 2, 2023
Olympic Time Trial Unhealthy for Remco Evenepoel, however good for Wout van Aert
It seems like the 2 Belgian leaders will head to Paris for the Olympic Video games with totally different preparations. The Belgian nationwide coach, Sven Vanthourenhout, sees advantage in each processes, he advised WielerFlits.
Wout van Aert has made the Giro d’Italia his major purpose of the season, whereas Remco Evenepoel will journey the Tour de France for the primary time shortly earlier than the Olympic Video games. “They’ve each proven that they are often prepared for a giant appointment, even when they arrive from a giant tour. It is usually clear that they’ve ambitions for the Video games, I’ve already mentioned this with them and their administration.”
In contrast to the Tokyo Video games, the time trial takes place just a few days earlier than the highway race. In keeping with Vanthourenhout, that is vital. “Previous expertise tells me that riders who got here from a Grand Tour typically did effectively within the highway race on the World championships or the Olympic Video games after which fell one % quick within the time trial. Simply have a look at Van Aert in Tokyo (after the Tour) and Evenepoel in Wollongong (after the Vuelta). That chance additionally exists right here.”
Ending the Tour may subsequently be a danger for Evenepoel, however Vanthourenhout is just not nervous. “Remco all the time comes from a Grand Tour at a really excessive stage. He is aware of very effectively what he’s doing and I’m the final to query his preparation. On paper, riders from the Tour needs to be at a little bit of an obstacle for the time trial, however Remco can all the time show me improper and may mix the 2 completely.”
The nationwide coach can be keen about Van Aert’s Giro selection. “The Giro has not but been formally decided, however I personally assume it could not swimsuit him badly. It will likely be a totally totally different preparation for the Video games than he did in 2021, however no much less profitable. Wout additionally is aware of what he has to do and could be very motivated.”
The Paris Olympic route stays a giant query mark in the intervening time. “A championship on a metropolis circuit all the time supplies a totally totally different expertise than some other race or traditional that exists. By way of expertise, it is going to be a bit like in Glasgow, however each race or course has its personal aspects. It’ll all the time be totally different than the final time, however definitely troublesome. I don’t count on a bunch dash, at most one from a thinned out group.”
Olympic hopefuls – Remco and Wout:
Egan Bernal’s 18 Yr-Previous Brother to Race in Europe in 2024
Ronald Bernal, the youthful brother of Tour winner Egan Bernal, will race for UC Monaco subsequent 12 months. The membership group supported by the Monaco Biking Federation confirmed the information on social media.
The 18 year-old Ronald is an U23 from 2024. As a junior, the Colombian raced for Talentos Colombia-Bicicletas Strongman, a group supported by his brother Egan. He additionally contested a number of European races for the Italian Regia Congressi Seiecom Valdarno group, together with the Trofeo Comune di Vertova – Memorial Pietro Merelli (1.1), though he didn’t end that UCI race.
Egan Bernal is understood for his climbing qualities, whereas Ronald is a ‘rouleur’ in keeping with Ciclismo Internacional. His dream is to win Paris-Roubaix.
Egan and Ron Bernal:
Pim Ronhaar to be a Stagiaire with Lidl-Trek in 2024
Pim Ronhaar will journey just a few races with WorldTeam Lidl-Trek in 2024. From August 1, he generally is a stagiaire with the American group, Ronhaar advised the NOS.
“I don’t know precisely which races but, however that may be a very good prospect,” stated the 22 year-old rider of Baloise Trek Lions, who had his huge breakthrough in latest weeks with World Cup victories in Dendermonde and Dublin. Ronhaar doesn’t count on fast success on the highway, however he is aware of the place he can finest carry out in the long run. “I feel I just like the Classics in Wallonia finest. A bit extra uphill, the place I can use my energy higher,” stated Ronhaar.
The Dutchman is following the instance of teammate Thibau Nys, who began racing with the then Trek-Segafredo group as a stagaiare in 2022. A 12 months later, Nys moved to the WorldTeam, the place he has now signed till 2026. Because of the partnership with Baloise Trek Lions, he can proceed to race for his present group.
Pim Ronhaar to race on the highway with Lidl-Trek:
Toon Aerts Finds a Workforce for When his Doping Suspension Ends
Toon Aerts has signed for Deschacht-Hens-Maes and can race once more as quickly as his two-year doping suspension ends on February sixteenth of subsequent 12 months. In keeping with Het Nieuwsblad, Aerts has a two-year contract with Deschacht-Hens-Maes, beginning on February 16, the day his two-year ban for using the substance letrozole expires.
Aerts, who then rode for Baloise Trek Lions, was solely formally discovered responsible of the doping violation in August 2023, after an investigation by the UCI. Aerts has all the time maintained that his optimistic check was because of contamination. Regardless of Aerts protests, the UCI concluded that he had “failed to ascertain how (the substance) entered his physique”. His ban was backdated and can expire on February 16, 2024. Aerts plans to be again in motion on the seventeenth in Sint-Niklaas.
Toon Aerts again in February 2024:
Colombian Marco Tulio Suesca Checks Optimistic for EPO
Marco Tulio Suesca is taking a look at a protracted suspension. The 29 year-old Colombian examined optimistic for EPO in an out-of-competition examine in September. Suesca has been provisionally suspended by the Colombian anti-doping tribunal.
Suesca has been sidelined by his Movistar-Greatest PC group and is now awaiting the ‘B’ pattern check and a last verdict from the anti-doping authorities. The climber examined optimistic earlier than the beginning of the Vuelta de Boyacá, however nonetheless began the race. Suesca took a stage win and in addition gained a stage within the Vuelta al Eduador.
The Colombian has by no means managed to affix the professionals throughout his profession, however in recent times he has been one of many higher riders on the South and Central American circuit. He gained the Vuelta a Costa Rica final 12 months and was fifth within the Vuelta a Colombia, this 12 months he was ninth within the Colombian tour and was profitable once more within the Vuelta de Boyacá and Vuelta a Ecuador.
The provisionally suspended Suesca has raced for the Continental Movistar-Greatest PC group since December 2022. Earlier than that he rode for the membership group Equipe Continental Orgullo Paisa. Seven years in the past, in 2016, he was a stagiaire with the now defunct Manzana Postobon group. He rode a number of European races: the Klasika Primavera, Vuelta a Castilla y Leon and the Tour of Asturias.
Ban for Marco Tulio Suesca:
Decathlon AG2R Needs to Keep away from Relegation from the WorldTour
Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale completely doesn’t wish to be relegated to ProTeam after 2025. The French group solely completed seventeenth within the 2023 UCI rankings, placing it within the hazard zone. Issues have to be higher subsequent season, riders Oliver Naesen and Stan Dewulf spoke to Sporza about subsequent 12 months.
Decathlon-AG2R has two years to maintain its place on the best step of the game. In 2026, groups that aren’t within the prime 18 will likely be relegated. “The factors have been a bit missing final season,” Oliver Naesen advised Sporza. “Each week we have been advised that we needed to do higher and that the factors are of important significance. They’re very busy with it.”
In keeping with Stan Dewulf, the sponsors are the driving pressure behind these issues. “It will be important for them that we get factors, preserve our WorldTour standing and be capable to journey the Tour de France.”
That’s the reason, in keeping with Dewulf, the group must race in another way. “We’ll generally must make tactical selections through the race which are contradictory to what biking is all about. In WorldTour Classics we is not going to wager on one horse. The tactic will likely be to get into the ultimate with two males and end as shut as doable for the factors.”
This may result in unusual conditions. “What in case you are away with 5 rides and nobody is driving? Do you have to nonetheless be the engine to complete 4th or fifth and rating factors with certainty? Or are you able to race tactically after which let a bunch of 25 riders return with the danger that you’ll end additional down. These are points that the group DS’s must remedy.”
The group wants factors:
Movistar Signal Davide Cimolai
Movistar have signed Davide Cimolai. Marca launched the information on Thursday and the group has confirmed the signing on Saturday. The Italian is on a one-year contract.
The 34 year-old Cimolai rode for Cofidis for the previous two seasons, however didn’t get a contract extension with the French WorldTeam. Because of this, he’s free to go wherever he desires in 2024. Cimolai made his skilled debut in 2010 with the then Liquigas-Doimo group. Two years later, he switched to Lampre-ISD (2012-2016), after which he additionally raced for Groupama-FDJ (2017-2018) and Israel Begin-Up Nation (2019-2021). His palmarès embody victories in Paris-Good, the Tour of Catalonia and the Trofeo Laigueglia.
“Inside me, I used to be content material and calm with my profession ending this very 2023 season, as a result of the previous few months had been actually exhausting from a psychological standpoint, and my choice had already been taken to not proceed. Solely a suggestion from an vital group may change that, and it was the case with the Movistar Workforce. It’s and honour and a supply of immense pleasure for me to be a part of such a prestigious squad, the place I’m certain I’ll discover the suitable ambiance and get again the boldness and enthusiasm I had misplaced. I’m becoming a member of the group with the ambition of providing my highest. I’m conscious that I’m right here basically to assist Gaviria, and I hope that my assist, along with the remainder of the group’s, can lead us to nice victories. I wish to take benefit from this announcement to particularly thank Eusebio Unzué for the chance – I had the pleasure to assembly him and he’s been such a pleasant individual to me.”
Davide Cimolai to Movistar:
Imanol Erviti Attainable INEOS Grenadiers DS
Imanol Erviti lately ended his 20 12 months skilled profession. The 40 year-old Spaniard raced for Movistar, and its predecessors, all through his profession, however he should be in peloton subsequent 12 months as DS with a special group.
In keeping with the web site Diario de Noticias, Erviti is within the working as a brand new group DS with INEOS Grenadiers. There have been some modifications within the British group lately; Rod Ellingworth handed in his resignation as deputy group boss earlier this month. He was the short-term alternative for Sir Dave Brailsford as supervisor. In keeping with The Telegraph, Brailsford may additionally depart INEOS Grenadiers. He would have a job with Manchester United FC, as INEOS proprietor Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly engaged on a takeover. Roger Hammond, Head of Racing, can be leaving, presumably to Israel-Premier Tech.
INEOS Grenadiers wants a brand new sports activities director for 2024 and Erviti is a risk and he speaks good English. It’s unclear whether or not the Spaniard, who was a highway captain inside his previous group Movistar, has truly been contacted.
Erviti turned skilled in 2005 with Illes Balears – Caisse d’Epargne, a predecessor of the present Movistar group. He remained loyal to Eusebio Unzué’s group all through his profession. Throughout that profession he was primarily a domestique, however he additionally gained 3 times: A stage victory within the Vuelta a España in 2008 and 2010, and in 2011 he gained the Vuelta Ciclista a La Rioja.
Imanol Erviti to be a INEOS Grenadiers DS:
Nonetheless a Lot of WorldTour Riders With no Contract for 2024
The 2023 highway season has completed and plenty of groups are preparing for 2024. There are nonetheless fairly just a few WorldTour riders who haven’t any contract for subsequent season. Most groups have crammed their roster, coaching camps have been deliberate for December and January and the race applications are being organised.
WorldTour Riders With no Contracts for 2024:
Alpecin-Deceuninck
Robert Stannard
Arkea-B&B Motels
Nicolas Edet
Astana Qazaqstan
Leonardo Basso
David De la Cruz
Joe Dombrowski
Yuriy Natarov
Antonio Nibali
Nurbergen Nurlykhassym
Alexandr Riabushenko
Andrey Zeits
Bahrain Victorious
Hermann Pernsteiner
BORA-hansgrohe
Giovanni Aleotti
Victor Koretzky
Cofidis
André Carvalho
Davide Cimolai (presumably Movistar)
Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale
Alex Baudin
Lawrence Naesen
Antoine Raugel
EF Training – EasyPost
Andrey Amador
Owain Doull
Odd Christian Eiking
Merhawi Kudus
Sean Quinn
Tom Scully
James Shaw
Łukasz Wiśniowski
INEOS Grenadiers
Cameron Wurf
Intermarché-Circus-Wanty
Julius Johansen
Lidl Trek
Amanuel Ghebreigzabhier
Asbjørn Hellemose
Movistar
Abner González
dsm-firmenich PostNL
Leon Heinschke
Jayco AlUla
Alexandre Balmer
Tsgabu Grmay
Lukas Pöstlberger
UAE Workforce Emirates
José Álvaro Hodeg
Michael Vink.
Joe Dombrowski nonetheless on the lookout for a group:
Benidorm Needs Wout van Aert in Their Cross
The organisers of the World Cup in Benidorm hopes that Wout van Aert will take part of their cross in January. The Belgian is just not but certain whether or not he’ll journey the Spanish cross or not. “We’ll all must push him a bit of to persuade him,” stated organiser Paul Momparler to Esciclismo.
Along with the cross in Benidorm, the cross in Zonhoven can be not a certainty but. “These crosses coincide with the group’s coaching camp in January and that causes snags. As well as, the gathered fatigue simply earlier than and after the coaching camp additionally performs a job within the last evaluation of whether or not beginning suits in with the build-up in direction of the spring,” the Jumbo-Visma group stated.
Mathieu van der Poel and Tom Pidcock have already confirmed their participation, so Momparler hopes for a battle between the ‘Large Three’. “The most effective riders within the World are taking part, proof {that a} sunny cross in January is an ideal state of affairs. Van Aert, nonetheless, makes it rely upon the primary crosses on his calendar. He desires to see how he will get by way of the Christmas season. Van Aert will likely be in Alicante along with his group by then, however he could have his cross tools with him.”
“We’ll all must push him a bit of to persuade him to take part in Benidorm. Then he can journey his final cross of the season with us. We’re lucky that we will now get the three finest riders within the World to compete. Which will now not be doable in just a few years,” Momparler concluded.
Van der Poel had the higher hand in Benidorm final 12 months:
Grand Départ 2025: The Tour de France within the Land of the Giants
Key factors:
- The start to the 112th version of the Tour de France has been introduced at a press convention in Lille, the executive centre of the Nord division. In 2025, the Grand Départ will give attention to the qualities of all the Hauts-de-France area, the Nord division and the European metropolis of Lille.
- The date of fifth July has been set for the primary stage, whose route will type a loop round Lille. Subsequent, the Pas-de-Calais division could have pleasure of place because the pack crosses it from east to west between Lauwin-Planque and Boulogne-sur-Mer. After that, the pack will then set off from Valenciennes, which makes its return to the route of the Tour after a 34-year absence. Dunkirk, which hosted the Grand Départ in 2001 in addition to a stage begin on the Tour in 2022 will likely be welcoming the end of the third stage. Lastly, the beginning in Amiens would be the final alternative to thank the inhabitants of the Hauts-de-France area for his or her welcome, earlier than the Tour heads off to new horizons.
Northern France will likely be welcoming new giants. A far cry from the imposing puppets we’re used to seeing at carnivals, festivals, particular avenue markets or on Paris-Roubaix, these 176 ones will likely be of human dimension and driving bikes, able to do battle by way of the plains, valleys and mountains of France. Northern France is aware of all about biking giants: 2 winners (Maurice Garin, an adopted northerner, in 1903, and Henri Cornet in 1904); 7 Yellow Jersey wearers (Jean Alavoine in 1922, Amédée Fournier in 1939, José Catieau in 1973, Martial Gayant in 1987, Cédric Vasseur in 1997, Laurent Desbiens in 1998 and Christophe Moreau in 2001); plus a legend in Jean Stablinski, with extra 100 skilled victories together with 5 levels on the Tour de France between 1957 and 1967, a world championship title (1962) and 4 French championship titles (1960, 1962, 1963 and 1964).
For the fifth time, the Tour de France will set off from this cycling-mad area, the cradle of Paris-Roubaix. In 2001, for the latest Grand Départ, from Dunkirk, Christophe Moreau grabbed the Yellow Jersey on completion of the prologue. This time, on an everyday stage, the battle for the primary Yellow Jersey of the race will likely be fought at excessive velocity and the victor must be on prime type to triumph within the land of the giants.
The European metropolis of Lille, the primary website to host this Grand Départ, may even be the location for the version’s first end. On a stage that may type a loop round Lille, the wind will likely be a decisive issue: on roads open to the weather, the riders must be on their guard to keep away from getting caught out. The battle for the most effective climber’s jersey ought to act as a curtain raiser for the battle for the Yellow Jersey: the slopes of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, Mont Cassel (through its cobbled facet) and the Mont Noir, forty kilometres from the ending line, will likely be within the sights of the primary breakaways of the version. The sprinters will most likely battle it out for victory on the finish of a one kilometre-long straight, on the foot of the citadel.
The next day, the peloton will depart the Nord division to cross by way of the Pas-de-Calais for a really powerful finale on the Côte d’Opale earlier than the battle for stage victory in Boulogne-sur-Mer. The tip of this second stage, which is tailor made for punchers, will likely be no simple process for the day before today’s winner if he’s a pure sprinter. Along with the upwardly inclined last straight, the slopes at Saint-Etienne-au-Mont and Outreau, positioned lower than ten kilometres from the ending line, imply it is extremely possible the pack’s powerful guys will likely be battling for the stage win.
The race will return to the Nord division on seventh July for the final stage that may happen fully throughout the confines of the Hauts-de-France area. Between Valenciennes and Dunkirk, watchfulness and stress within the peloton needs to be the order of the day. The beginning from Valenciennes and the primary a part of the stage don’t maintain any explicit problem in retailer, not like the end, because the race nears Dunkirk, which may show to be extraordinarily difficult. Following the intermediate dash at Isbergues, well-known to biking aficionados, the route due north to the Côte de Cassel slope after which the end of the stage promise to be spectacular if the wind invitations itself to the occasion. On Tuesday eighth July, in Amiens, the historic capital of Picardy, it is going to be time for the Tour to depart the Hauts-de-France area for an as but unknown vacation spot…
The primary 4 levels of the Tour de France 2025:
Saturday, July fifth, Stage 1: Lille Métropole > Lille Métropole, 185 km
Sunday, July sixth stage 2: Lauwin-Planque > Boulogne-sur-Mer, 209 km
Monday, July seventh, stage 3: Valenciennes > Dunkerque, 172 km
Tuesday, July eighth, stage 4: Amiens > ?
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