Stage 21 - Sunday, July 27: Étampes - Paris/Champs Élysées, 143km
Finally, the last stage is here and the Tour has reached Paris. For many in the peloton this is a...
Finally, the last stage is here and the Tour has reached Paris. For many in the peloton this is a victory in itself, but many others have designs on a stage win on the most famous boulevard in the world. It's very likely that a breakaway will try to get away and win the day – everybody wants to be the first man on the Champs Élysées – but it's almost inevitable that they will be reeled in by the sprinters teams and one of the fast men will triumph.
The Champs Élysées is a much more complicated sprint than many other places though. Aside from the cobbles, the course crosses the Place de la Concorde with less than half a kilometre to go and the resulting chicane serves to disrupt a sprinter's train. The winner is usually one of the best sprinters, but rarely the one whose team has led him out.
Étampes is yet another first time stage town, but Paris of course has hosted all 95 of them. Before the course reaches the capital though, there are two fourth category climbs to negotiate – unusual for the final day – which could decide a close polka dot jersey classification.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Most Popular
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
Onguard 8003 Pitbull STD U-Lock review: Affordable, high security lock best suited for e- and cargo bikes
With a Sold Secure Diamond rating at this price point, what’s the catch? -
Best winter cycling gloves 2024: Keep your hands warm and dry this winter
The best winter cycling gloves will keep your hands warm and dry no matter what the weather brings -
POC Motion commuter jacket review: My long term companion for city riding
Great fit, durably made, and really useful off the bike too -
2025 Tour of the Alps includes 14,700m of climbing in just 739km and five days of racing
Route revealed in front of Christian Prudhomme and UCI President David Lappartient