Stage 14: Clermont-Ferrand to Lyon
Breakaway riders will again battle the sprint teams on this long and hilly route across central France. Two steep climbs near the end could thin the group of its heaviest sprinters.
Start: 7:20 am EST
Est. Finish: 12:00 pm EST
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Stage 14 preview
Course: This long stage presents a challenge to the heavy sprinters, who will likely be dropped on the category 2 ascent of Col du Béal and spend the next 120 kilometers chasing back on. Here’s the problem: They must still survive the climb to Correau (category 3) and then two category 4 climbs within Lyon to reach the finish line. Expect Bora-Hansgrohe and CCC Team to drive the pace to keep the heavy sprinters off the back.
Favorites: Peter Sagan, Greg Van Avermaet, Julian Alaphilippe
Jens Voigt’s take: Almost 200 kilometers, and in the streets of Lyon the riders will encounter some short but vicious climbs. There’s no way the sprinters will make it. This one is for the fast and furious, so I expect the likes of Greg Van Avermaet or Peter Sagan battling it out today. This will be one the fastest, craziest and most dangerous finishes of the Tour. Excitement is guaranteed.