With 83 kilometers remaining in the final stage of the Tour de France, the atmosphere is celebratory as participants honor each jersey category. However, competitive racing has yet to commence, offering instead picturesque views of Paris.
As we reach the 88-kilometer mark, the four classification winners are leading a gradual rollout. It appears that we are in for a ceremonial lap before the intensity of the race picks up. Currently, there are no signs of champagne being served.
What are your thoughts on this stage? Personally, I find it somewhat unusual as a sporting event. While the ceremonial aspects are appealing, I would prefer a more traditional race format. Please share your opinions by emailing me using the link provided at the top of the page.
The final stage is about to kick off, although the early part will be processional in nature, making it difficult to predict how the dynamics will unfold.
Let’s recap yesterday’s happenings, as detailed in Jeremy Whittle’s report from Alpe d’Huez:
Today’s stage in Paris involves some exciting elements:
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Last year, the inclusion of climbs at Butte Montmartre was a triumphant experiment, highlighted by Wout van Aert’s stunning victory despite the rain, which rendered the stage non-scoring for the overall classification. This year, the climb returns but with an extended circuit, adding 10 kilometers from the summit to the finish at the Champs-Élysées. Van Aert is absent this time, so keep an eye on Classics specialists like Pedersen and possibly Van der Poel, assuming he remains in contention. However, it’s uncertain if Pogacar will play a supporting role, and I wouldn’t bet on that.
This year’s Tour de France has been marked by issues beyond the course, culminating in a finale altered due to a heatwave and wildfires that have led to the evacuation of nearly 200,000 residents in southern France. Consequently, the route has been condensed to accommodate emergency services.
The riders have already participated in their pre-stage presentation in Thoiry before being transported to Paris, where the shortened 89-kilometer stage begins and ends. With the overall standings settled, only the winner of stage 21 remains to be determined.
Yesterday, Mads Pedersen, Richard Carapaz, and Isaac del Toro all achieved their goals. Pedersen secured the points classification, distancing himself from Jasper Philipsen following a remarkable performance over the Galibier. Carapaz clinched the polka dot jersey with an impressive display in the mountains, earning his second stage victory of this Tour. Meanwhile, Del Toro triumphed in the competition for the young rider’s white jersey, aided significantly by Tadej Pogacar. The latter has effectively held the yellow jersey since his attack on the Tourmalet during stage six, and today he will be officially recognized as the champion for the fifth time and may also contend for the stage win.
The route includes three ascents of Côte de la Butte Montmartre, along with several laps around the Champs-Élysées, giving the stage a classic spring race ambiance. Mathieu van der Poel stands out as a strong contender for victory, alongside Pogacar and Pedersen. However, sprinters could also play a role if they can endure the climbs. In what may be a fatigued conclusion to the Tour, the rider who takes the initiative today is likely to emerge victorious.
