Former professional cyclist Lance Armstrong recently shared his insights on an upcoming critical stage of the Tour de France during his podcast, The Move.
As the race heads into its 19th stage, with a grueling profile that includes a total of 58 kilometers of climbing, Armstrong discusses the potential twists and turns that could impact the race’s outcome.
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The stage setup
Stage 19 of the Tour de France is set to be a climber’s nightmare or dream, depending on one’s perspective. Featuring three major climbs with no respite in between, the stage finishes in Isola 2000 and includes the Col de Vars, Cime de la Bonnette, and a summit finish at Isola 2000. This stage is not only physically demanding but also strategically crucial as it could decisively shape the final general classification.
Pogacar dominates in the Pyrenees, leaving Vingegaard in the dust at the Tour de France
Armstrong’s analysis
Despite Tadej Pogacar’s significant lead over his closest competitors, including Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel, Armstrong suggests that the race is far from over. The intense elevation gain and the brutal length of the climbs present a unique challenge that, according to Armstrong, could lead to unexpected developments. “The guys are blown out, the race seems decided, but anything can happen, you have to race to the finish line,” Armstrong stated, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of such a demanding stage.
The climbs
The stage’s climbing profile is particularly notable for its relentless ascents:
- Col de Vars stretches for 18.9 kilometers at an average gradient of 5.6%.
- Cime de la Bonnette, the longest of the three, extends for 23.1 kilometers, climbing at 6.8% to an altitude of 2798 meters.
- Isola 2000, where the stage concludes, involves a 16.1-kilometer ascent at 7.1%.
Strategies and team dynamics
Armstrong also touched on the strategies that might be employed by the riders and their teams. With the general classification possibly at stake, the main contenders will need to be at their best. However, Armstrong pointed out that there are still teams without stage wins looking to make their mark, suggesting a highly competitive start as teams vie for a breakaway success.
🇫🇷 Tour de France Stage 19 🔮
🌟🌟🌟 Tadej Pogačar
⭐️⭐️ Jonas Vingegaard, Remco Evenepoel
⭐️ Joao Almeida, Carlos Rodríguez, Jai HindleyHe knew this was the day everyone said Jonas would win the Tour, so he recced the climb many times. He wins the Tour tomorrow.#TdF2024 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/hjXZLNtBe7
— Lewis (@VamosCiclismo) July 18, 2024
Implications for the contenders
For riders like Vingegaard, who is better suited to such climatic challenges compared to his rivals, this stage represents a critical opportunity to reclaim time lost in earlier segments. Pogacar, on the other hand, will be keen to defend his lead and solidify his position at the top of the leaderboard.
Nothing is certain until the very end
As the Tour de France approaches its final stages, Armstrong’s insights remind spectators and competitors alike that in cycling, especially in such a challenging race as the Tour, nothing is certain until the very end. Stage 19 promises to be a monumental day that could potentially redefine the standings and showcase the resilience and tactical acumen of the world’s best riders.
Climbing to the Heavens: A guide to the thrilling 14th stage of Tour de France 2024
This article explores the complexities and strategic nuances of Stage 19 of the Tour de France as discussed by Lance Armstrong. Highlighting the stage’s demanding profile and the potential for significant shifts in the general classification, Armstrong’s perspective provides a seasoned look at what could be a pivotal moment in this year’s race.
