{"id":2022162,"date":"2026-07-01T19:33:53","date_gmt":"2026-07-01T16:33:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2022162"},"modified":"2026-07-01T19:33:53","modified_gmt":"2026-07-01T16:33:53","slug":"storms-spark-mudslides-on-controversial-tour-de-france-stage-route-to-col-de-sarenne-near-alpe-dhuez","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2022162","title":{"rendered":"Storms spark mudslides on controversial Tour de France stage route to Col de Sarenne near Alpe d&#8217;Huez"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cshuGoPwjDL8CALdp773uN-2000-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 1 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR.jpg\" alt=\"UAE Team Emirates - XRG team&amp;#039;s Slovenian rider Tadej Pogacar celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win the fith and final stage of the Men&amp;#039;s Tour of Switzerland (Tour de Suisse) cycling race, 150.7 km starting and finishing in Villars-sur-Ollon on June 21, 2026. (Photo by Harold Cunningham \/ AFP)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] w-20 h-20 object-cover flex-none rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-4 h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                    <span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">1<\/span>\n                                <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    &#8216;Tadej keeps on surprising us&#8217; \u2013 The inside view on how UAE Team Emirates-XRG have constructed Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s assault on a fifth Tour de France\n                                <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 2 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/WHEfA8PfrwjRikdcTccTK.png\" alt=\"Tour de France 2026 contenders banner\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] w-20 h-20 object-cover flex-none rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                    <span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">2<\/span>\n                                <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Who will win the Tour de France 2026? Our definitive ranking of the favourites for the yellow jersey\n                                <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 3 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF.jpg\" alt=\"The pack of riders (peloton) cycles during the 7th stage of the 112th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, 197 km between Saint-Malo and Mur-de-Bretagne Guerledan, in Brittany, western France, on July 11, 2025. (Photo by Marco BERTORELLO \/ AFP) (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO\/AFP via Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] w-20 h-20 object-cover flex-none rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                    <span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">3<\/span>\n                                <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?\n                                <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"clear-both widget-header\">\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<div id=\"kiosq-metered-message\" class=\"kiosq-metered-message-content\"><\/div>\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour de France\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Storms spark mudslides on controversial Tour de France stage route to Col de Sarenne near Alpe d&#8217;Huez<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start max-sm:flex-col justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\">\n<span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nLaura Weislo, Jackie Tyson <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\">\n<span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-07-01T19:33:53Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n1 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><br \/>\n<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Heat and humidity among weather challenges at Tour de France that bring UCI &#8216;High Temperature Protocol&#8217; to forefront<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cshuGoPwjDL8CALdp773uN.jpg\" alt=\"A view from afar of the peloton descending the Sarenne, the road carved into the side of a steep slope\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block-image-ads hero-image absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full object-center\" data-component-name=\"Image\"><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"> <span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">The Col de Sarenne makes a rare appearance in the Tour de France on stage 20<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><br \/>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>    <span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div 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id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-e7d207ee-b94b-4cc6-8fad-2db8a1afebb5\">The route for the queen stage of the 2026 Tour de France was struck by two separate mudslides in the past week, raising concerns that stage 20 may have to be re-routed if unpredictable storms continue.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-1\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p>A recent severe heat wave sparked strong thunderstorms near Alpe d&#8217;Huez, with heavy rain causing a mudslide last week on the road to the Col de Sarenne.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"><\/a><\/p>\n<aside data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"hawk-root\"><\/aside>\n<p id=\"elk-e7d207ee-b94b-4cc6-8fad-2db8a1afebb5-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Just days after crews cleared the rocks and mud from the road, another mudslide struck on Monday on , with the local weather service M\u00e9t\u00e9o Oisans posting images of the aftermath on social media.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-mobile\"><\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full\" data-jwp-carousel-player-host><\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Riders are due to ascend the Col de Sarenne on stage 20 of the Tour de France on July 25, the second of back-to-back summit to finish atop Alpe d&#8217;Huez this year. A week before the Tour passes the area, thousands of recreational riders will use this same route for L&#8217;Etape du Tour de France on July 19.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-2\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Environmental groups have already protested the inclusion of the Col de Sarenne due to its location next to a nature preserve and its fragile ecosystem.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\">\n        <span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF.jpg\" alt=\"The pack of riders (peloton) cycles during the 7th stage of the 112th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, 197 km between Saint-Malo and Mur-de-Bretagne Guerledan, in Brittany, western France, on July 11, 2025. (Photo by Marco BERTORELLO \/ AFP) (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO\/AFP via Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pM2BgPFQ384bBjTvvZktxm.jpg\" alt=\"Overall map of the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">2026 Tour de France route &#8211; the complete stage-by-stage guide<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6UVQwoEXi5RjnZGn3ZMMAP.png\" alt=\"2025 Tour de France:  future winner Tadej Poga\u010dar and teammates on a mountain descent\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">From a crucial TTT to double Alpe d&#8217;Huez \u2013 The key stages that will decide the Tour de France<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">While road crews have more than two weeks to remove rock and debris and repair any damage, severe thunderstorms remain on the forecast for the coming week.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tour de France was heavily impacted by severe storms and landslides in 2019. Stage 19 had to be halted due to debris blocking the route to Val d&#8217;Isere while eventual overall winner Egan Bernal was on the attack on the nearby Col de l&#8217;Iseran.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then, the following day&#8217;s stage was cut to just 59 kilometres after another landslide blocked the Cormet Roselend.<\/p>\n<div class=\"instagram-embed kiosq-b\" id=\"elk-DaLXluGklmY\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version=\"6\">\n<p>A post shared by M\u00e9t\u00e9o Oisans (@meteo_oisans)<\/p>\n<p>A photo posted by on <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-f65ef268-9e1f-48f2-9014-3309cea275cb\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The organisers are also concerned about a repeat of a deadly June heat wave across Western Europe saw temperatures soaring as high as 43\u00b0C (109\u00b0F).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;This is a subject that greatly concerns us [Tour de France organisers]. It&#8217;s not the first year we&#8217;ve faced this issue, but this time it&#8217;s even more pressing because we&#8217;ve already just gone through two difficult periods (in May and June),&#8221; the Tour&#8217;s technical director Thierry Gouvenou told <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em> on Tuesday.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\">\n        <span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KFkgiFUJKHidCEa6kTwwN5.jpg\" alt=\"Route information for the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Tour de France 2026 stage 20 preview<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iDyEmv9DxGZQLYGwpjtCGD.jpg\" alt=\"Dorian Godon triumphed in the 2025 elite men&amp;#039;s road race\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">National Championships: French men&#8217;s road race shortened due to extreme heat<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xcRHnx9R4ss9w7pJwVVKiV.jpg\" alt=\"Baudin in yellow and Vauquelin in the white jersey stand on the start line talking\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Ineos with leadership issues, Seixas and Del Toro with ground to make up \u2013 GC analysis ahead of mountain triple-header in Tour Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;In recent years, we&#8217;ve opened the feed zone from kilometer zero to the finish line and extended the elimination time limits. For years, we&#8217;ve also provided refreshment motorcycles that bring drinks to the riders, especially those in breakaways.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Extreme heat has caused dangerous conditions several times over the last 23 years, creating punishing situations for riders and melting tarmac, which, in the 2003 Tour de France, led to Joseba Beloki famously crashing on a descent on a stage to Gap. Melting pavement was also an issue a few years later on the descent from the Col du Galibier.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In 2022, stage 15 was held as planned in 40\u00b0C temperatures, with riders being allowed extended feeding from team cars and a more generous time limit.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Just three days ago the hot weather in France caused the country&#8217;s cycling federation to shorten the elite men&#8217;s road race national championship, eliminating one lap from the planned 241-kilometre competition.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The UCI created protocols for extreme weather in 2015, and two years ago updated the guidelines for heat, which include air temperature, humidity and solar radiation. A colour code is used to signal risks, with red noting the highest risk and organisers. At this level, they are advised to modify start or finish times, neutralise racing or cancel all or part of a stage.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But with the Tour&#8217;s start in Spain this year for the first three days, some modifications may not be possible.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;We must understand that 28,000 police officers, firefighters, and gendarmes are mobilized and that we&#8217;re not at home on the roads. Authorizations are granted for a specific time. These aren&#8217;t things that can be done at the last minute,&#8221; Tour Director Christian Prudhomme told <em>AFP<\/em>, which was reported by <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em>. &#8220;You can shorten the route by fifteen kilometers or start half an hour earlier. But that&#8217;s only done in exceptional circumstances.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Temperatures in the Barcelona area are expected to reach highs of 33<strong>\u00b0<\/strong>C this weekend, which is hot but not extreme. It should be hotter across the next two weeks into the Alps, with temperatures reaching 37\u00b0C or higher at the end the first week on stage 9.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><em><strong>The world\u2019s biggest bike race deserves world-class coverage. Subscribe to Cyclingnews for unlimited access to our unrivalled reporting of the 2026 Tour de France. From Barcelona through to Paris, our experienced team will bring you breaking news, expert insight, and in-depth coverage from every stage as the battle for the yellow jersey plays out. Plus, access the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on the go!<\/strong><\/em><em><strong> <\/strong><\/em><em><strong>Find out more<\/strong><\/em><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"kiosq-app-paywall-js\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"this-will-be-used-for-mpu-2\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" alt=\"Jackie Tyson\" class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Jackie Tyson<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"button-social__icon\"><\/span><span class=\"button-social__icon\"><\/span><span class=\"button-social__icon button-social__icon-email\"><\/span><\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">North American Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Jackie has been involved in professional sports for more than 30 years in news reporting, sports marketing and public relations. She founded Peloton Sports in 1998, a sports marketing and public relations agency, which managed projects for Tour de Georgia, Larry H. Miller Tour of Utah and USA Cycling. She also founded Bike Alpharetta Inc, a Georgia non-profit to promote safe cycling. She is proud to have worked in professional baseball for six years &#8211; from selling advertising to pulling the tarp for several minor league teams. On the bike, she has climbed l&#8217;Alpe d&#8217;Huez three times (not fast), and spends time on gravel around horse farms in north Georgia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div id=\"viafoura-comments\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"relative h-(--truncate-height) sm:h-(--truncate-desktop-height) overflow-hidden transition-[height] duration-150\" data-test-id=\"container\" data-component-name=\"Util:Truncate\" id=\"viafoura-comments-container\">\n<div class=\"relative z-10 viafoura rounded-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\" id=\"viafoura-comment-wrapper\" data-test-id=\"content\">\n<div class=\"viafoura\">\n<div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute bg-gradient-to-t from-[var(--truncate-gradient-color,white)] from-50% h-28 z-20 w-full bottom-0 flex items-end justify-center px-0 rounded-none\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"infinite-container\" data-analytics-id=\"infinite-container\" data-component-name=\"SponsoredScroll\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"infinite-container\">\n<div class=\"infinite-trigger\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF.jpg\" alt=\"The pack of riders (peloton) cycles during the 7th stage of the 112th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, 197 km between Saint-Malo and Mur-de-Bretagne Guerledan, in Brittany, western France, on July 11, 2025. (Photo by Marco BERTORELLO \/ AFP) (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO\/AFP via Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pM2BgPFQ384bBjTvvZktxm.jpg\" alt=\"Overall map of the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">2026 Tour de France route &#8211; the complete stage-by-stage guide<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6UVQwoEXi5RjnZGn3ZMMAP.png\" alt=\"2025 Tour de France:  future winner Tadej Poga\u010dar and teammates on a mountain descent\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">From a crucial TTT to double Alpe d&#8217;Huez \u2013 The key stages that will decide the Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KFkgiFUJKHidCEa6kTwwN5.jpg\" alt=\"Route information for the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de France 2026 stage 20 preview<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iDyEmv9DxGZQLYGwpjtCGD.jpg\" alt=\"Dorian Godon triumphed in the 2025 elite men&amp;#039;s road race\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">National Championships: French men&#8217;s road race shortened due to extreme heat<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xcRHnx9R4ss9w7pJwVVKiV.jpg\" alt=\"Baudin in yellow and Vauquelin in the white jersey stand on the start line talking\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Ineos with leadership issues, Seixas and Del Toro with ground to make up \u2013 GC analysis ahead of mountain triple-header in Tour Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Racing<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QTCLcmUzDB4vKuEqEJ6Bi8.jpg\" alt=\"NSN Cycling Team&amp;#039;s Eritrean rider Biniam Girmay (L) and Soudal Quick-Step&amp;#039;s Belgian rider Tim Merlier (R) sprint to the finish line of the Tour of Belgium cycling race, 187.9 km starting and finishing in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, on June 17, 2026. The Belgium Tour takes place from 17 to 21 June. (Photo by JASPER JACOBS \/ Belga \/ AFP) \/ Belgium OUT\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We have big dreams&#8217; &#8211; Biniam Girmay blames Intermarch\u00e9 for lack of 2025 success but aims high in 2026 Tour de France sprints<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qtzsphhQ7VqSpWCqs6j4ob.jpg\" alt=\"Miguel Indurain receives an award from Alejandro Blanco, President of the Spanish Olympic Committee, for the 30th anniversary of his 1996 Olympic TT gold medal \" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He&#8217;s got the legs to go for a Tour de France&#8217; &#8211; Five-time champion Miguel Indurain backs Paul Seixas as future race winner<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RibR6Wh7KNWskcXoL3rZ7N.jpg\" alt=\"Eddy Merckx\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Maybe the first to win a sixth&#8217; \u2013 All-time great Eddy Merckx backs Tadej Poga\u010dar for 2026 Tour de France victory, and possibly more<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BbiX2eXD8WsmSJdGXAbGx9.jpg\" alt=\"2026 Tour de Suisse: Mathieu van der Poel during the stage 4 time trial\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I have a love-hate relationship with the Tour de France&#8217; \u2013 Mathieu van der Poel prepares for possible final shot at success<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/T8ybgLfee2TVxkKZuX9aZT.jpg\" alt=\"2026 Giro d&amp;#039;Italia: Egan Bernal completes a high mountain stage\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;They&#8217;ll have the freedom to go for it&#8217; \u2013 Netcompany Ineos name experienced, versatile squad for Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/T8toqLKcpSSXYECZ83xwHY.jpg\" alt=\"WILLUNGA, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 17: A general view of the peloton competing at Aldinga Beach landscape during the 10th Santos Women&amp;#039;s Tour Down Under 2026, Stage 1 a 137.4km stage from Willunga to Willunga 134m \/ #UCIWWT \/ on January 17, 2026 in Willunga, Australia. (Photo by Con Chronis\/Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Willunga Hill with a twist and a Stirling finale for double race days of 2027 Tour Down Under<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QTCLcmUzDB4vKuEqEJ6Bi8.jpg\" alt=\"NSN Cycling Team&amp;#039;s Eritrean rider Biniam Girmay (L) and Soudal Quick-Step&amp;#039;s Belgian rider Tim Merlier (R) sprint to the finish line of the Tour of Belgium cycling race, 187.9 km starting and finishing in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, on June 17, 2026. The Belgium Tour takes place from 17 to 21 June. (Photo by JASPER JACOBS \/ Belga \/ AFP) \/ Belgium OUT\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We have big dreams&#8217; &#8211; Biniam Girmay blames Intermarch\u00e9 for lack of 2025 success but aims high in 2026 Tour de France sprints<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tACiKA5ikM7UxGJnJspaY9.jpg\" alt=\"Tom Pidcock returns to the Tour de France with Pinarello-Q36.5 Pro Cycling after missing out in 2025\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Former Alpe d&#8217;Huez stage winner Tom Pidcock confirmed to lead Pinarello-Q36.5 as versatile squad &#8216;look for opportunities every day&#8217; at Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qtzsphhQ7VqSpWCqs6j4ob.jpg\" alt=\"Miguel Indurain receives an award from Alejandro Blanco, President of the Spanish Olympic Committee, for the 30th anniversary of his 1996 Olympic TT gold medal \" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He&#8217;s got the legs to go for a Tour de France&#8217; &#8211; Five-time champion Miguel Indurain backs Paul Seixas as future race winner<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nrv5QvMBr5RHf9PosL9saa.jpg\" alt=\"VILLARS-LES-DOMBES, FRANCE - JUNE 11: (L-R) Carlos Rodriguez of Spain, Kevin Vauquelin of France and Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team - White Best Young Rider Jersey and a general view of the peloton competing during the 78th Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes 2026, Stage 5 a 195.8km stage from Saint-Chamond to Parc des Oiseaux Villars-les-Dombes \/ #UCIWT \/ on June 11, 2026 in Parc des Oiseaux Villars-les-Dombes, France. (Photo by Dario Belingheri\/Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;You can&#8217;t wallow in what could have been&#8217; \u2013 Geraint Thomas says Netcompany Ineos ready to pivot from Tour de France GC to stage hunting<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFkhCKrkRijSphmjYpQJ3a.jpg\" alt=\"Netcompany Ineos&amp;#039; rider Joshua Tarling receives attention after suffering a crash during the 6th stage of the Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes \" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Remarkable recovery sees Josh Tarling go from broken collarbone surgery to Tour de France debut in just three weeks<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j2p5bpNEVapCnM75X7Zpbb.jpg\" alt=\"Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9 during a TTT early in 2026\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Not been an easy decision&#8217; \u2013 Effective immediately, WorldTour team loses Head of Performance just days before Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"related-articles-block\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"ads\" id=\"ads-middle-1\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-ads widget-ads-middle-1 widget-ads-ads-middle-1 widget-no-data widget-ads-flexi_ads_middle1\">\n<div id=\"bdx_flexi_ads_middle1\" data-type=\"ads\" data-ads-type=\"bordeaux\" class=\"flexi_ads_middle1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar widget-empty-sidebar widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar-top\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar-top widget-empty-sidebar-top ad-unit widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"follow-us-on-google-news\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-follow-us-on-google-news widget-contentparsed-follow-us-on-google-news widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-curated \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar-popular-top\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar-popular-top widget-empty-sidebar-popular-top ad-unit widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"clear-both widget-header\">\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cshuGoPwjDL8CALdp773uN.jpg\" alt=\"A view from afar of the peloton descending the Sarenne, the road carved into the side of a steep slope\" class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Storms spark mudslides on controversial Tour de France stage route to Col de Sarenne near Alpe d&#8217;Huez<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;We have big dreams&#8217; &#8211; Biniam Girmay blames Intermarch\u00e9 for lack of 2025 success but aims high in 2026 Tour de France sprints<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Former Alpe d&#8217;Huez stage winner Tom Pidcock confirmed to lead Pinarello-Q36.5 as versatile squad &#8216;look for opportunities every day&#8217; at Tour de France<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;He&#8217;s got the legs to go for a Tour de France&#8217; &#8211; Five-time champion Miguel Indurain backs Paul Seixas as future race winner<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;You can&#8217;t wallow in what could have been&#8217; \u2013 Geraint Thomas says Netcompany Ineos ready to pivot from Tour de France GC to stage hunting<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar-popular-bottom\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar-popular-bottom widget-empty-sidebar-popular-bottom ad-unit widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"clear-both widget-header\">\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<div id=\"kiosq-metered-message\" class=\"kiosq-metered-message-content\"><\/div>\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour de France\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Storms spark mudslides on controversial Tour de France stage route to Col de Sarenne near Alpe d&#8217;Huez<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start max-sm:flex-col justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\">\n<span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nLaura Weislo, Jackie Tyson <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\">\n<span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-07-01T19:33:53Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n1 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><br \/>\n<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Heat and humidity among weather challenges at Tour de France that bring UCI &#8216;High Temperature Protocol&#8217; to forefront<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cshuGoPwjDL8CALdp773uN.jpg\" alt=\"A view from afar of the peloton descending the Sarenne, the road carved into the side of a steep slope\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block-image-ads hero-image absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full object-center\" data-component-name=\"Image\"><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"> <span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">The Col de Sarenne makes a rare appearance in the Tour de France on stage 20<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><br \/>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<\/li>\n<li 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id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-e7d207ee-b94b-4cc6-8fad-2db8a1afebb5\">The route for the queen stage of the 2026 Tour de France was struck by two separate mudslides in the past week, raising concerns that stage 20 may have to be re-routed if unpredictable storms continue.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-1\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p>A recent severe heat wave sparked strong thunderstorms near Alpe d&#8217;Huez, with heavy rain causing a mudslide last week on the road to the Col de Sarenne.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"><\/a><\/p>\n<aside data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"hawk-root\"><\/aside>\n<p id=\"elk-e7d207ee-b94b-4cc6-8fad-2db8a1afebb5-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Just days after crews cleared the rocks and mud from the road, another mudslide struck on Monday on , with the local weather service M\u00e9t\u00e9o Oisans posting images of the aftermath on social media.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-mobile\"><\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full\" data-jwp-carousel-player-host><\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Riders are due to ascend the Col de Sarenne on stage 20 of the Tour de France on July 25, the second of back-to-back summit to finish atop Alpe d&#8217;Huez this year. A week before the Tour passes the area, thousands of recreational riders will use this same route for L&#8217;Etape du Tour de France on July 19.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-2\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Environmental groups have already protested the inclusion of the Col de Sarenne due to its location next to a nature preserve and its fragile ecosystem.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\">\n        <span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF.jpg\" alt=\"The pack of riders (peloton) cycles during the 7th stage of the 112th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, 197 km between Saint-Malo and Mur-de-Bretagne Guerledan, in Brittany, western France, on July 11, 2025. (Photo by Marco BERTORELLO \/ AFP) (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO\/AFP via Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pM2BgPFQ384bBjTvvZktxm.jpg\" alt=\"Overall map of the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">2026 Tour de France route &#8211; the complete stage-by-stage guide<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6UVQwoEXi5RjnZGn3ZMMAP.png\" alt=\"2025 Tour de France:  future winner Tadej Poga\u010dar and teammates on a mountain descent\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">From a crucial TTT to double Alpe d&#8217;Huez \u2013 The key stages that will decide the Tour de France<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">While road crews have more than two weeks to remove rock and debris and repair any damage, severe thunderstorms remain on the forecast for the coming week.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tour de France was heavily impacted by severe storms and landslides in 2019. Stage 19 had to be halted due to debris blocking the route to Val d&#8217;Isere while eventual overall winner Egan Bernal was on the attack on the nearby Col de l&#8217;Iseran.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then, the following day&#8217;s stage was cut to just 59 kilometres after another landslide blocked the Cormet Roselend.<\/p>\n<div class=\"instagram-embed kiosq-b\" id=\"elk-DaLXluGklmY\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version=\"6\">\n<p>A post shared by M\u00e9t\u00e9o Oisans (@meteo_oisans)<\/p>\n<p>A photo posted by on <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-f65ef268-9e1f-48f2-9014-3309cea275cb\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The organisers are also concerned about a repeat of a deadly June heat wave across Western Europe saw temperatures soaring as high as 43\u00b0C (109\u00b0F).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;This is a subject that greatly concerns us [Tour de France organisers]. It&#8217;s not the first year we&#8217;ve faced this issue, but this time it&#8217;s even more pressing because we&#8217;ve already just gone through two difficult periods (in May and June),&#8221; the Tour&#8217;s technical director Thierry Gouvenou told <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em> on Tuesday.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\">\n        <span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KFkgiFUJKHidCEa6kTwwN5.jpg\" alt=\"Route information for the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Tour de France 2026 stage 20 preview<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iDyEmv9DxGZQLYGwpjtCGD.jpg\" alt=\"Dorian Godon triumphed in the 2025 elite men&amp;#039;s road race\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">National Championships: French men&#8217;s road race shortened due to extreme heat<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xcRHnx9R4ss9w7pJwVVKiV.jpg\" alt=\"Baudin in yellow and Vauquelin in the white jersey stand on the start line talking\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Ineos with leadership issues, Seixas and Del Toro with ground to make up \u2013 GC analysis ahead of mountain triple-header in Tour Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;In recent years, we&#8217;ve opened the feed zone from kilometer zero to the finish line and extended the elimination time limits. For years, we&#8217;ve also provided refreshment motorcycles that bring drinks to the riders, especially those in breakaways.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Extreme heat has caused dangerous conditions several times over the last 23 years, creating punishing situations for riders and melting tarmac, which, in the 2003 Tour de France, led to Joseba Beloki famously crashing on a descent on a stage to Gap. Melting pavement was also an issue a few years later on the descent from the Col du Galibier.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In 2022, stage 15 was held as planned in 40\u00b0C temperatures, with riders being allowed extended feeding from team cars and a more generous time limit.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Just three days ago the hot weather in France caused the country&#8217;s cycling federation to shorten the elite men&#8217;s road race national championship, eliminating one lap from the planned 241-kilometre competition.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The UCI created protocols for extreme weather in 2015, and two years ago updated the guidelines for heat, which include air temperature, humidity and solar radiation. A colour code is used to signal risks, with red noting the highest risk and organisers. At this level, they are advised to modify start or finish times, neutralise racing or cancel all or part of a stage.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But with the Tour&#8217;s start in Spain this year for the first three days, some modifications may not be possible.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;We must understand that 28,000 police officers, firefighters, and gendarmes are mobilized and that we&#8217;re not at home on the roads. Authorizations are granted for a specific time. These aren&#8217;t things that can be done at the last minute,&#8221; Tour Director Christian Prudhomme told <em>AFP<\/em>, which was reported by <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em>. &#8220;You can shorten the route by fifteen kilometers or start half an hour earlier. But that&#8217;s only done in exceptional circumstances.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Temperatures in the Barcelona area are expected to reach highs of 33<strong>\u00b0<\/strong>C this weekend, which is hot but not extreme. It should be hotter across the next two weeks into the Alps, with temperatures reaching 37\u00b0C or higher at the end the first week on stage 9.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><em><strong>The world\u2019s biggest bike race deserves world-class coverage. Subscribe to Cyclingnews for unlimited access to our unrivalled reporting of the 2026 Tour de France. From Barcelona through to Paris, our experienced team will bring you breaking news, expert insight, and in-depth coverage from every stage as the battle for the yellow jersey plays out. Plus, access the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on the go!<\/strong><\/em><em><strong> <\/strong><\/em><em><strong>Find out more<\/strong><\/em><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"kiosq-app-paywall-js\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"this-will-be-used-for-mpu-2\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" alt=\"Jackie Tyson\" class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Jackie Tyson<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"button-social__icon\"><\/span><span class=\"button-social__icon\"><\/span><span class=\"button-social__icon button-social__icon-email\"><\/span><\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">North American Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Jackie has been involved in professional sports for more than 30 years in news reporting, sports marketing and public relations. She founded Peloton Sports in 1998, a sports marketing and public relations agency, which managed projects for Tour de Georgia, Larry H. Miller Tour of Utah and USA Cycling. She also founded Bike Alpharetta Inc, a Georgia non-profit to promote safe cycling. She is proud to have worked in professional baseball for six years &#8211; from selling advertising to pulling the tarp for several minor league teams. On the bike, she has climbed l&#8217;Alpe d&#8217;Huez three times (not fast), and spends time on gravel around horse farms in north Georgia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div id=\"viafoura-comments\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"relative h-(--truncate-height) sm:h-(--truncate-desktop-height) overflow-hidden transition-[height] duration-150\" data-test-id=\"container\" data-component-name=\"Util:Truncate\" id=\"viafoura-comments-container\">\n<div class=\"relative z-10 viafoura rounded-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\" id=\"viafoura-comment-wrapper\" data-test-id=\"content\">\n<div class=\"viafoura\">\n<div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute bg-gradient-to-t from-[var(--truncate-gradient-color,white)] from-50% h-28 z-20 w-full bottom-0 flex items-end justify-center px-0 rounded-none\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"infinite-container\" data-analytics-id=\"infinite-container\" data-component-name=\"SponsoredScroll\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"infinite-container\">\n<div class=\"infinite-trigger\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF.jpg\" alt=\"The pack of riders (peloton) cycles during the 7th stage of the 112th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, 197 km between Saint-Malo and Mur-de-Bretagne Guerledan, in Brittany, western France, on July 11, 2025. (Photo by Marco BERTORELLO \/ AFP) (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO\/AFP via Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pM2BgPFQ384bBjTvvZktxm.jpg\" alt=\"Overall map of the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">2026 Tour de France route &#8211; the complete stage-by-stage guide<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6UVQwoEXi5RjnZGn3ZMMAP.png\" alt=\"2025 Tour de France:  future winner Tadej Poga\u010dar and teammates on a mountain descent\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">From a crucial TTT to double Alpe d&#8217;Huez \u2013 The key stages that will decide the Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KFkgiFUJKHidCEa6kTwwN5.jpg\" alt=\"Route information for the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de France 2026 stage 20 preview<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iDyEmv9DxGZQLYGwpjtCGD.jpg\" alt=\"Dorian Godon triumphed in the 2025 elite men&amp;#039;s road race\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">National Championships: French men&#8217;s road race shortened due to extreme heat<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xcRHnx9R4ss9w7pJwVVKiV.jpg\" alt=\"Baudin in yellow and Vauquelin in the white jersey stand on the start line talking\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Ineos with leadership issues, Seixas and Del Toro with ground to make up \u2013 GC analysis ahead of mountain triple-header in Tour Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Racing<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QTCLcmUzDB4vKuEqEJ6Bi8.jpg\" alt=\"NSN Cycling Team&amp;#039;s Eritrean rider Biniam Girmay (L) and Soudal Quick-Step&amp;#039;s Belgian rider Tim Merlier (R) sprint to the finish line of the Tour of Belgium cycling race, 187.9 km starting and finishing in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, on June 17, 2026. The Belgium Tour takes place from 17 to 21 June. (Photo by JASPER JACOBS \/ Belga \/ AFP) \/ Belgium OUT\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We have big dreams&#8217; &#8211; Biniam Girmay blames Intermarch\u00e9 for lack of 2025 success but aims high in 2026 Tour de France sprints<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qtzsphhQ7VqSpWCqs6j4ob.jpg\" alt=\"Miguel Indurain receives an award from Alejandro Blanco, President of the Spanish Olympic Committee, for the 30th anniversary of his 1996 Olympic TT gold medal \" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He&#8217;s got the legs to go for a Tour de France&#8217; &#8211; Five-time champion Miguel Indurain backs Paul Seixas as future race winner<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RibR6Wh7KNWskcXoL3rZ7N.jpg\" alt=\"Eddy Merckx\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Maybe the first to win a sixth&#8217; \u2013 All-time great Eddy Merckx backs Tadej Poga\u010dar for 2026 Tour de France victory, and possibly more<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BbiX2eXD8WsmSJdGXAbGx9.jpg\" alt=\"2026 Tour de Suisse: Mathieu van der Poel during the stage 4 time trial\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I have a love-hate relationship with the Tour de France&#8217; \u2013 Mathieu van der Poel prepares for possible final shot at success<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/T8ybgLfee2TVxkKZuX9aZT.jpg\" alt=\"2026 Giro d&amp;#039;Italia: Egan Bernal completes a high mountain stage\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;They&#8217;ll have the freedom to go for it&#8217; \u2013 Netcompany Ineos name experienced, versatile squad for Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/T8toqLKcpSSXYECZ83xwHY.jpg\" alt=\"WILLUNGA, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 17: A general view of the peloton competing at Aldinga Beach landscape during the 10th Santos Women&amp;#039;s Tour Down Under 2026, Stage 1 a 137.4km stage from Willunga to Willunga 134m \/ #UCIWWT \/ on January 17, 2026 in Willunga, Australia. (Photo by Con Chronis\/Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Willunga Hill with a twist and a Stirling finale for double race days of 2027 Tour Down Under<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QTCLcmUzDB4vKuEqEJ6Bi8.jpg\" alt=\"NSN Cycling Team&amp;#039;s Eritrean rider Biniam Girmay (L) and Soudal Quick-Step&amp;#039;s Belgian rider Tim Merlier (R) sprint to the finish line of the Tour of Belgium cycling race, 187.9 km starting and finishing in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, on June 17, 2026. The Belgium Tour takes place from 17 to 21 June. (Photo by JASPER JACOBS \/ Belga \/ AFP) \/ Belgium OUT\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We have big dreams&#8217; &#8211; Biniam Girmay blames Intermarch\u00e9 for lack of 2025 success but aims high in 2026 Tour de France sprints<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tACiKA5ikM7UxGJnJspaY9.jpg\" alt=\"Tom Pidcock returns to the Tour de France with Pinarello-Q36.5 Pro Cycling after missing out in 2025\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Former Alpe d&#8217;Huez stage winner Tom Pidcock confirmed to lead Pinarello-Q36.5 as versatile squad &#8216;look for opportunities every day&#8217; at Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qtzsphhQ7VqSpWCqs6j4ob.jpg\" alt=\"Miguel Indurain receives an award from Alejandro Blanco, President of the Spanish Olympic Committee, for the 30th anniversary of his 1996 Olympic TT gold medal \" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He&#8217;s got the legs to go for a Tour de France&#8217; &#8211; Five-time champion Miguel Indurain backs Paul Seixas as future race winner<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nrv5QvMBr5RHf9PosL9saa.jpg\" alt=\"VILLARS-LES-DOMBES, FRANCE - JUNE 11: (L-R) Carlos Rodriguez of Spain, Kevin Vauquelin of France and Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team - White Best Young Rider Jersey and a general view of the peloton competing during the 78th Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes 2026, Stage 5 a 195.8km stage from Saint-Chamond to Parc des Oiseaux Villars-les-Dombes \/ #UCIWT \/ on June 11, 2026 in Parc des Oiseaux Villars-les-Dombes, France. (Photo by Dario Belingheri\/Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;You can&#8217;t wallow in what could have been&#8217; \u2013 Geraint Thomas says Netcompany Ineos ready to pivot from Tour de France GC to stage hunting<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFkhCKrkRijSphmjYpQJ3a.jpg\" alt=\"Netcompany Ineos&amp;#039; rider Joshua Tarling receives attention after suffering a crash during the 6th stage of the Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes \" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Remarkable recovery sees Josh Tarling go from broken collarbone surgery to Tour de France debut in just three weeks<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j2p5bpNEVapCnM75X7Zpbb.jpg\" alt=\"Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9 during a TTT early in 2026\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] object-cover w-full h-full\"><\/p><\/div>\n<p>                                                                                                <span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><\/p>\n<p>                            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Not been an easy decision&#8217; \u2013 Effective immediately, WorldTour team loses Head of Performance just days before Tour de France<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post max-w-full [&amp;.sponsored-post--loaded+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden [&amp;[data-bordeaux-hook-loaded]+.sponsored-post--placeholder]:hidden\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\">\n            <span class=\"font-ui-heading bg-(--ad-slot-badge-bg-color) absolute text-xs font-bold leading-[14px] tracking-normal text-left text-white px-2.5 py-[5px] left-0 top-0 empty:hidden\"><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative bg-gray-200\"><\/div>\n<p>            <span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"related-articles-block\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"ads\" id=\"ads-middle-1\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-ads widget-ads-middle-1 widget-ads-ads-middle-1 widget-no-data widget-ads-flexi_ads_middle1\">\n<div id=\"bdx_flexi_ads_middle1\" data-type=\"ads\" data-ads-type=\"bordeaux\" class=\"flexi_ads_middle1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar widget-empty-sidebar widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar-top\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar-top widget-empty-sidebar-top ad-unit widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"follow-us-on-google-news\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-follow-us-on-google-news widget-contentparsed-follow-us-on-google-news widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-curated \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar-popular-top\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar-popular-top widget-empty-sidebar-popular-top ad-unit widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"clear-both widget-header\">\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cshuGoPwjDL8CALdp773uN.jpg\" alt=\"A view from afar of the peloton descending the Sarenne, the road carved into the side of a steep slope\" class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Storms spark mudslides on controversial Tour de France stage route to Col de Sarenne near Alpe d&#8217;Huez<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;We have big dreams&#8217; &#8211; Biniam Girmay blames Intermarch\u00e9 for lack of 2025 success but aims high in 2026 Tour de France sprints<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Former Alpe d&#8217;Huez stage winner Tom Pidcock confirmed to lead Pinarello-Q36.5 as versatile squad &#8216;look for opportunities every day&#8217; at Tour de France<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;He&#8217;s got the legs to go for a Tour de France&#8217; &#8211; Five-time champion Miguel Indurain backs Paul Seixas as future race winner<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;You can&#8217;t wallow in what could have been&#8217; \u2013 Geraint Thomas says Netcompany Ineos ready to pivot from Tour de France GC to stage hunting<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"empty\" id=\"sidebar-popular-bottom\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-empty widget-sidebar-popular-bottom widget-empty-sidebar-popular-bottom ad-unit widget-no-data widget-empty\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<div id=\"kiosq-metered-message\" class=\"kiosq-metered-message-content\"><\/div>\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour de France\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Storms spark mudslides on controversial Tour de France stage route to Col de Sarenne near Alpe d&#8217;Huez<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start max-sm:flex-col justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\">\n<span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nLaura Weislo, Jackie Tyson <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\">\n<span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-07-01T19:33:53Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n1 July 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><br \/>\n<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Heat and humidity among weather challenges at Tour de France that bring UCI &#8216;High Temperature Protocol&#8217; 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aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-e7d207ee-b94b-4cc6-8fad-2db8a1afebb5\">The route for the queen stage of the 2026 Tour de France was struck by two separate mudslides in the past week, raising concerns that stage 20 may have to be re-routed if unpredictable storms continue.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-1\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p>A recent severe heat wave sparked strong thunderstorms near Alpe d&#8217;Huez, with heavy rain causing a mudslide last week on the road to the Col de Sarenne.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"><\/a><\/p>\n<aside data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"hawk-root\"><\/aside>\n<p id=\"elk-e7d207ee-b94b-4cc6-8fad-2db8a1afebb5-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Just days after crews cleared the rocks and mud from the road, another mudslide struck on Monday on , with the local weather service M\u00e9t\u00e9o Oisans posting images of the aftermath on social media.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-mobile\"><\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full\" data-jwp-carousel-player-host><\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Riders are due to ascend the Col de Sarenne on stage 20 of the Tour de France on July 25, the second of back-to-back summit to finish atop Alpe d&#8217;Huez this year. A week before the Tour passes the area, thousands of recreational riders will use this same route for L&#8217;Etape du Tour de France on July 19.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-2\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Environmental groups have already protested the inclusion of the Col de Sarenne due to its location next to a nature preserve and its fragile ecosystem.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\">\n        <span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF.jpg\" alt=\"The pack of riders (peloton) cycles during the 7th stage of the 112th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, 197 km between Saint-Malo and Mur-de-Bretagne Guerledan, in Brittany, western France, on July 11, 2025. (Photo by Marco BERTORELLO \/ AFP) (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO\/AFP via Getty Images)\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pM2BgPFQ384bBjTvvZktxm.jpg\" alt=\"Overall map of the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">2026 Tour de France route &#8211; the complete stage-by-stage guide<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6UVQwoEXi5RjnZGn3ZMMAP.png\" alt=\"2025 Tour de France:  future winner Tadej Poga\u010dar and teammates on a mountain descent\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">From a crucial TTT to double Alpe d&#8217;Huez \u2013 The key stages that will decide the Tour de France<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">While road crews have more than two weeks to remove rock and debris and repair any damage, severe thunderstorms remain on the forecast for the coming week.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tour de France was heavily impacted by severe storms and landslides in 2019. Stage 19 had to be halted due to debris blocking the route to Val d&#8217;Isere while eventual overall winner Egan Bernal was on the attack on the nearby Col de l&#8217;Iseran.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-giTAjfTK7A2HSaHUxLRHdP slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then, the following day&#8217;s stage was cut to just 59 kilometres after another landslide blocked the Cormet Roselend.<\/p>\n<div class=\"instagram-embed kiosq-b\" id=\"elk-DaLXluGklmY\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version=\"6\">\n<p>A post shared by M\u00e9t\u00e9o Oisans (@meteo_oisans)<\/p>\n<p>A photo posted by on <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-f65ef268-9e1f-48f2-9014-3309cea275cb\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The organisers are also concerned about a repeat of a deadly June heat wave across Western Europe saw temperatures soaring as high as 43\u00b0C (109\u00b0F).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;This is a subject that greatly concerns us [Tour de France organisers]. It&#8217;s not the first year we&#8217;ve faced this issue, but this time it&#8217;s even more pressing because we&#8217;ve already just gone through two difficult periods (in May and June),&#8221; the Tour&#8217;s technical director Thierry Gouvenou told <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em> on Tuesday.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\">\n        <span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KFkgiFUJKHidCEa6kTwwN5.jpg\" alt=\"Route information for the 2026 Tour de France\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Tour de France 2026 stage 20 preview<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iDyEmv9DxGZQLYGwpjtCGD.jpg\" alt=\"Dorian Godon triumphed in the 2025 elite men&amp;#039;s road race\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">National Championships: French men&#8217;s road race shortened due to extreme heat<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n<p>    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xcRHnx9R4ss9w7pJwVVKiV.jpg\" alt=\"Baudin in yellow and Vauquelin in the white jersey stand on the start line talking\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] aspect-square size-[75px] object-cover shrink-0 rounded-lg\"><\/p>\n<p>                        <span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Ineos with leadership issues, Seixas and Del Toro with ground to make up \u2013 GC analysis ahead of mountain triple-header in Tour Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;In recent years, we&#8217;ve opened the feed zone from kilometer zero to the finish line and extended the elimination time limits. For years, we&#8217;ve also provided refreshment motorcycles that bring drinks to the riders, especially those in breakaways.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Extreme heat has caused dangerous conditions several times over the last 23 years, creating punishing situations for riders and melting tarmac, which, in the 2003 Tour de France, led to Joseba Beloki famously crashing on a descent on a stage to Gap. Melting pavement was also an issue a few years later on the descent from the Col du Galibier.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In 2022, stage 15 was held as planned in 40\u00b0C temperatures, with riders being allowed extended feeding from team cars and a more generous time limit.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Just three days ago the hot weather in France caused the country&#8217;s cycling federation to shorten the elite men&#8217;s road race national championship, eliminating one lap from the planned 241-kilometre competition.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The UCI created protocols for extreme weather in 2015, and two years ago updated the guidelines for heat, which include air temperature, humidity and solar radiation. A colour code is used to signal risks, with red noting the highest risk and organisers. At this level, they are advised to modify start or finish times, neutralise racing or cancel all or part of a stage.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But with the Tour&#8217;s start in Spain this year for the first three days, some modifications may not be possible.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;We must understand that 28,000 police officers, firefighters, and gendarmes are mobilized and that we&#8217;re not at home on the roads. Authorizations are granted for a specific time. These aren&#8217;t things that can be done at the last minute,&#8221; Tour Director Christian Prudhomme told <em>AFP<\/em>, which was reported by <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em>. &#8220;You can shorten the route by fifteen kilometers or start half an hour earlier. But that&#8217;s only done in exceptional circumstances.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Temperatures in the Barcelona area are expected to reach highs of 33<strong>\u00b0<\/strong>C this weekend, which is hot but not extreme. It should be hotter across the next two weeks into the Alps, with temperatures reaching 37\u00b0C or higher at the end the first week on stage 9.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><em><strong>The world\u2019s biggest bike race deserves world-class coverage. Subscribe to Cyclingnews for unlimited access to our unrivalled reporting of the 2026 Tour de France. From Barcelona through to Paris, our experienced team will bring you breaking news, expert insight, and in-depth coverage from every stage as the battle for the yellow jersey plays out. Plus, access the Cyclingnews app to follow the action on the go!<\/strong><\/em><em><strong> <\/strong><\/em><em><strong>Find out more<\/strong><\/em><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/storms-spark-mudslides-on-controversial-tour-de-france-stage-route-to-col-de-sarenne-near-alpe-dhuez\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cshuGoPwjDL8CALdp773uN-2000-80.jpg&#8221;] 1 &#8216;Tadej keeps on surprising us&#8217; \u2013 The inside view on how UAE Team Emirates-XRG have constructed Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s assault on a fifth Tour de France 2 Who will win the Tour de France 2026? Our definitive ranking of the favourites for the yellow jersey 3 The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-2022162","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2022162","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2022162"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2022162\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2022162"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2022162"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2022162"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}