Stage 9 - Sunday, July 13: Toulouse - Bagnères de Bigorre, 224km
This is where the Tour really begins as the roads head upwards into the high passes of the Pyrenees....
This is where the Tour really begins as the roads head upwards into the high passes of the Pyrenees. Leaving the city of Toulouse, the course heads south and east over a number of small hills, until it reaches Luchon where the climbing really starts. The two first category Cols de Peyresourde and Aspin are not the toughest climbs of the Tour, but both are tough enough to punish anyone who isn't on top form. The descent to the finish though, should mean that any gaps between the contenders will be small.
Bagnères-de-Bigorre features on the Tour route on a regular basis, sitting as it does at the foot of the infamous Col du Tourmalet, which the race tackles tomorrow, but has only been a start or finish town nine times before. Recently, the town has tended to feature as a start town, rather than a finish. The last time was that incredible day in 2003 when Lance Armstrong took stage victory at Luz-Ardiden. He stormed away to win alone after being brought down by a spectator's bag at the foot of the final climb, the incident leading to the "did Ullrich wait" debate that kept internet chat rooms buzzing for years afterwards.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Most Popular
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
Julbo Sprint helmet review: Strong aero option for a low price but lacking in other areas.
The Julbo Sprint scored well in the wind tunnel and is cheaper than most, however the fit, ventilation and quality leave something to be desired. -
Thunder Cross: Canadians Isabella Holmgren and Ian Ackert win C2 races in Montana
Sidney McGill and Scott Funston distanced for second in elite races day before Pan-Ams -
Pirelli P Zero Race 4S TLR review: Not the fastest rolling, but rugged, grippy and easy to live with
Grippy tyre with a great lifespan and puncture resistance. Not the fastest rolling, but for winter training it’s a great option. -
'The contract was ready' - Remco Evenepoel was reportedly offered multi-million contract by Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe
HLN analyst Michel Wuyts reveals details of bid to try and lure Evenepoel away from Soudal-QuickStep