The first time trial of this year's Tour comes earlier than usual, perhaps because of the absence of a prologue. The stage is also just over half the distance as usual, being just 29-kilometre in length. The stage route, as well as being short, is very flat so – weather permitting – speeds should be high. The stage should appeal to the specialists, but gaps should be small so none of the favourites for the overall classification will be able to take too much time out of their rivals.
The Tour has visited Cholet just twice before, the last time when Dutchman Jeroen Bliijlevens (TVM) out-sprinted Italian Nicola Minali (Riso Scotti) and Ján Svorada (Mapei-Bricobi). By picking up time bonuses throughout the stage, Australian Stuart O'Grady (then GAN, now CSC) took the first maillot jaune of his career. The town sits on the banks of the Moine river and is most famous for the production of linen fabrics.
-
'It's another world' - 18-year-old super talent Paul Seixas makes his mark as the WorldTour's youngest rider
'I’m pretty sure he will be up there. That’s for the plan for the final that we are together' says team leader Felix Gall at UAE Tour -
How to watch UAE Tour 2025 – Live streams, TV channels for stage 3 summit finish
All the broadcast info for the seven-day Emirati stage race where Tadej Pogačar starts his season -
Geerike Schreurs back on gravel podium in 2025 debut but more 'anxious' for first road race in 11 years
Unbound Gravel runner-up adds more US races to calendar along with pair of road races in Belgium with WorldTour team -
Jonas Vingegaard 'not searching for answers' at Volta ao Algarve after six-month racing break
Dane looking forward to 'try something new' in Portugal after previously starting seasons in rainy O Gran Camiño
