Stage 16 could be the key to the 2006 Tour. The crucial linchpin stage begins by immediately ascending the immense Galibier, then descends over 60km to attack the Beyond Category Col de la Croix-de-Fer, then the transition climb of Col du Mollard, and then down to St.Jean-de-Maurienne to the final ascent of the new climb up to the ski station of La Toussuire. It's not a steep grade at 6% but it is 18.4km long, which could lead to big gaps at the finish. It will be time for riders like Valverde to make up some time before the final TT.
Mountains
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Jai Hindley all in for 'main guy' Primož Roglič at Giro d'Italia, but says team have to 'expect the unexpected'
Australian was 'hoping for better' from Tour of the Alps but optimistic about improvements ahead of Albania -
'I am in pain, but nothing is broken' – Mattias Skjelmose recons Liège-Bastogne-Liège after avoiding serious injury in Flèche Wallonne crash
Dane was spotted riding key Côte de la Redoute climb on Thursday alongside Lidl-Trek teammates -
Tour of the Gila: Lauren Stephens extends her lead with victory at Mogollon on stage 2
José Ramón Muñiz claims men's stage 2 -
'There are more opportunities to race aggressively' – New Ineos Grenadiers ethos earns Thymen Arensman his first win for the team
Dutchman took victory and the race lead at the Tour of the Alps with an audacious 80km attack on stage 4
