The 110th edition of the prestigious Tour de France is set to commence in Bilbao, Spain, marking the remarkable 25th occasion the race has begun outside of France. In 1992, the Spanish Basque Country hosted the previous start in San Sebastian.
The upcoming three-week cycling extravaganza will feature a demanding route encompassing an impressive total of approximately 56,000 meters of climbing, a record-breaking 30 mountain passes, and traversing five majestic French mountain ranges. With a single time trial, the race will heavily favor skilled climbers.
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Anticipation is high as the iconic Puy de Dome in the Massif Central returns to the Tour after an absence of 35 years. The race will also lead the cyclists through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Pyrenees, the Jura, the Alps (highlighted by a major stage to Courchevel via the Col de la Loze), and the Vosges, culminating in a grand finish in Paris on July 23.
Among the contenders, two prominent favorites stand out for the victory: defending champion Jonas Vingegaard and the accomplished two-time winner, Tadej Pogacar.
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Vingegaard triumphed in the previous edition following his second-place finish in 2021, while Pogacar claimed victory in both 2020 and 2021 but settled for the runner-up position in 2022. However, uncertainties loom around Pogacar’s form due to a wrist injury sustained in April.
Numerous other talented riders, including France’s David Gaudu and Romain Bardet, Spain’s Enric Mas, and Australia’s Ben O’Connor, are expected to fiercely compete for the coveted podium positions. Noteworthy absences from the race include Remco Evenepoel, Primoz Roglic, and Geraint Thomas.
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Despite the gradual relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions in various sporting events, the Tour de France will remain subject to strict virus protocols. All staff members, journalists, and guests will be required to wear masks when in contact with riders, and participants are advised to refrain from activities like taking selfies and signing autographs to minimize the risk of transmission.
These precautionary measures aim to prevent incidents similar to Remco Evenepoel’s unfortunate withdrawal from the Giro d’Italia due to a positive Covid-19 test while leading the race.
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