{"id":2165912,"date":"2026-09-26T12:26:56","date_gmt":"2026-09-26T09:26:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2165912"},"modified":"2026-09-26T12:26:56","modified_gmt":"2026-09-26T09:26:56","slug":"a-new-twist-for-30th-year-of-tour-de-langkawi-with-trio-of-summit-finishes-that-will-have-sprinters-fighting-to-just-survive","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2165912","title":{"rendered":"A new twist for 30th year of Tour de Langkawi with trio of summit finishes that will have sprinters fighting to &#8216;just survive&#8217;"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-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    <source 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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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/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\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">2<\/span><\/div>\n<\/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                                    A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat\n                                <\/p>\n<\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ytKMCAWdoeKoxdomn4dR7V-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ytKMCAWdoeKoxdomn4dR7V-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/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\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">3<\/span><\/div>\n<\/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                                    Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s absence changes everything \u2013 How will World Championships strategies and tactics be rewritten in Montreal?\n                                <\/p>\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=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\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>\nLe Tour de Langkawi\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>A new twist for 30th year of Tour de Langkawi with trio of summit finishes that will have sprinters fighting to &#8216;just survive&#8217;<\/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 justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nSimone Giuliani <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-09-26T12:26:56Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n26 September 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">The Malaysian eight-stage race which has history as a sprinters showdown delivers a new climb on stage 2 and back-to-back HC summit finishes for stages 4 and 5<\/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<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Tour de Langkawi 2026 pre-race press conference with (L-R) Lennart Jasch (Tudor), Aaron Gate (XDS-Astana), Fernando Gaviria (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA), Geoffrey Bouchard (Total Energies), Aiman Rosli (Terengganu) and Muhammad Izzat Hilmi (Malaysia Pro Cycling)<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Tour de Langkawi 2026)<\/span><\/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 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\"><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 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-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\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-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\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-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-42c222e8-b989-11f1-8673-f99746b85082\">A win is never all there is at stake in any race, but somehow at Le Tour de Langkawi it&#8217;s a fact that doesn&#8217;t quietly tap away in the background but leaps into the spotlight with a deafening roar.<\/p>\n<p>For a start, the long-running Malaysian event offers a rare chance to launch a career, while for others it is a last chance to save it for those riders yet to secure a contract for 2027. Then there are the crucial points at stake in the never-ending relegation battle, and its current position near the end of the season also often makes it a farewell tour for riders who have decided, or had decided for them, that it is time to step away from the sport.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42c222e8-b989-11f1-8673-f99746b85082-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Altogether, it delivers the ingredients for a heady and emotion-filled, no-holds-barred battle with the backdrop of an exotic location plus a hot and humid climate which will have the riders raising a sweat even just walking to sign in at the start of each of the eight stages from September 27 to October 4.<\/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-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/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\">The race, which pulls together teams from the WorldTour, ProTour, Continental ranks and national teams for a race in a region which prizes its high-level UCI race opportunities, given they are limited, will also be throwing some new elements into the mix for its 30th edition this year.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Usually the sprinters are in focus for much of the event, with a decisive climbing day in the mix that is often decisive in the General Classification battle, but this year there are three summit finishes to add fire to the overall fight, with organisers pointing to the race as among the toughest editions ever.<\/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\"><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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;The sprinters still have a chance&#8217; &#8211; Former Champs-Elys\u00e9es winners give thumbs up to longer run-in from Butte Montmartre on Tour de France final stage<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Where are all the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a sprinters? They&#8217;re heading to Belgium instead<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s a welcome move for the riders who enjoy the uphill, but the sprinters and others who may not be pure climbers but perhaps thought they may be able to hang in there for one day and have a shot at the GC.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Yeah, the organisers have done a good job of removing any hope for riders like myself of having any chance at the GC with how hard they&#8217;ve made it this year,&#8221; quipped Aaron Gate (XDS-Astana), the winner of the final stage of last year&#8217;s race.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD 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\">Sprinter Fernando Gaviria (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA)was even more succinct when asked what he thought about the trio of climbing days: &#8220;For me it&#8217;s just survive.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These will be days when the fast men become allies in the autobus, looking to beat the time limit rather than enemies, getting through so they can battle once again. Those among the key sprint contenders include last year&#8217;s three-time winner Matteo Malucelli (XDS-Astana) \u2013 although we are yet to see if there may be any impact in stage from a training crash on Saturday that saw him quickly subbed out of the pre-race media conference line-up as his teammate Gate was subbed in.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The potential sprint competition includes the five-time Giro d&#8217;Italia and two-time Tour de France stage winner Gaviria along with Modern Adventure&#8217;s Riley Pickrell, though the Canadian rider is unfortunately one teammate down even before the race has even begun. Leo Hayter posted on social media that while he made the journey to Malaysia, he then discovered that he had pericarditis, so he has had to end his season.<\/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\"><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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;You have to take every opportunity you get&#8217; &#8211; After four days of suffering Tim Merlier is ready for first sprint of 2026 Tour de France<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><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 18 preview &#8211; First of three summit finishes to ignite polka dot jersey contest<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Gravel, time trials and the &#8216;Angliru of the south&#8217; \u2013 The five key stages that will decide the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There is only one flat stage for the sprinters \u2013 from Shah Alam to Kampar \u2013 before the climbing begins, with the introduction of the new ascent of Gunung Jerai as a shorter but steep finale for stage 2. Stage 3 then delivers an early category 2 challenge, which could well be a break launching point, though it flattens to give the fast-finishers another potential chance in Kuala Kangsar.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But the next two stages, with their long and challenging ascents to the finish line, are unquestionably all about the climbers. These include new revelation speed-skater turned cyclist Jasch Lennart (Tudor), Jan Castellon (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA), Nicolas Breuillard (Total Energies), Harold Mart\u00edn L\u00f3pez (XDS-Astana) and Jonathan Caicedo (Wheeltop Rotor Chengdu), who won the 2.Pro ranked Tour of Magnificent Qinghai in July.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the Ecuadorian champion, who in 2020 won a Giro stage on top of Mount Etna, was asked if he considered himself the favourite, Caicedo said, &#8220;My goal is a top ten finish in the race. I was training very hard in Ecuador; I think I&#8217;m good for the race, I&#8217;m ready for this.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Stage 4 heads into the Cameron Highlands \u2013 where overall race winner Simon Carr claimed victory in 2023 \u2013 with the road steadily ascending for more than 40km to the line. Then there is a second stage in a row that is finishing with a Hors-category climb, as the race on stage finishes in the Genting Highlands, which is an ascent that crowned Max Poole as the winner in 2024.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From there, stage 6 from Pandan Indah to Rembau offers some early category 3 challenges but flattens out after the first 20km, while stage 7 from the vibrant historical location of Melaka to Batu Pahat has nothing in the way of obstacles for the sprinters but the final stage to Putrajaya delivers a category 3 climb 50km from the line which could prove a launching point for an attack as the very last chance at a tour filled with riders looking for them unfolds.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9075a64c-b9a5-11f1-b918-4fb822370658\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">*<em>Cyclingnews attended Le Tour de Langkawi on an invitation\/media package from the race that included travel and accommodation. In line with our editorial standards, our coverage is independent and was not subject to review, approval or influence by the organiser or any sponsor; no favourable coverage was promised or given in return.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio slice-container-authorBio\" id=\"slice-container-authorBio\" data-component-name=\"Slice:AuthorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-author-bio-max-height=\"250\" data-author-bio-read-more=\"Read more\" data-author-bio-read-less=\"Read less\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">\n<p>Simone Giuliani<\/p>\n<\/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\">\nSocial Links Navigation\n<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Australia Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Simone is a degree-qualified journalist that has accumulated decades of wide-ranging experience while working across a variety of leading media organisations. She joined <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> as a Production Editor at the start of the 2021 season and has now moved into the role of Australia Editor. Previously she worked as a freelance writer, Australian Editor at <em>Ella CyclingTips<\/em> and as a correspondent for <em>Reuters<\/em> and <em>Bloomberg<\/em>. Cycling was initially purely a leisure pursuit for Simone, who started out as a business journalist, but in 2015 her career focus also shifted to the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\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=\"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<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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;The sprinters still have a chance&#8217; &#8211; Former Champs-Elys\u00e9es winners give thumbs up to longer run-in from Butte Montmartre on Tour de France final stage<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Where are all the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a sprinters? They&#8217;re heading to Belgium instead<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;You have to take every opportunity you get&#8217; &#8211; After four days of suffering Tim Merlier is ready for first sprint of 2026 Tour de France<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de France 2026 stage 18 preview &#8211; First of three summit finishes to ignite polka dot jersey contest<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Gravel, time trials and the &#8216;Angliru of the south&#8217; \u2013 The five key stages that will decide the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Matteo Malucelli reasserts Le Tour de Langkawi sprint power with stage 1 victory in photo finish with Riley Pickrell<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There is definitely a beauty of having a competitor that&#8217;s so strong&#8217; &#8211; Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney second best in explosive battle against Dutch rival at Road World Championships<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There were a lot of people racing for second&#8217; \u2013 Frustrated Marlen Reusser rues mistake in World Championships road race after narrowly missing podium in fourth<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s the biggest victory of my career&#8217; &#8211; Demi Vollering&#8217;s team-based plan pays off with title in World Championship road race<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We will just lick our wounds and come back for more&#8217; &#8211; Kate Courtney&#8217;s debut at Road World Championships ends early after crash on fastest part of course<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We were always together&#8217; &#8211; Juliette Berthet says three French riders in the top-10 in Montreal signals a strong future ahead of Haute-Savoie Super Worlds in 2027<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Yes, put me in&#8217; &#8211; Riley Sheehan gets his call to compete for USA at Road Worlds hours after finishing GP Montreal and flying to Paris<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There is definitely a beauty of having a competitor that&#8217;s so strong&#8217; &#8211; Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney second best in explosive battle against Dutch rival at Road World Championships<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There were a lot of people racing for second&#8217; \u2013 Frustrated Marlen Reusser rues mistake in World Championships road race after narrowly missing podium in fourth<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s the biggest victory of my career&#8217; &#8211; Demi Vollering&#8217;s team-based plan pays off with title in World Championship road race<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We will just lick our wounds and come back for more&#8217; &#8211; Kate Courtney&#8217;s debut at Road World Championships ends early after crash on fastest part of course<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We were always together&#8217; &#8211; Juliette Berthet says three French riders in the top-10 in Montreal signals a strong future ahead of Haute-Savoie Super Worlds in 2027<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/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=\"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=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/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>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/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\">\n<p>A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;Yes, put me in&#8217; &#8211; Riley Sheehan gets his call to compete for USA at Road Worlds hours after finishing GP Montreal and flying to Paris<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;There is definitely a beauty of having a competitor that&#8217;s so strong&#8217; &#8211; Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney second best in explosive battle against Dutch rival at Road World Championships<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;We will just lick our wounds and come back for more&#8217; &#8211; Kate Courtney&#8217;s debut at Road World Championships ends early after crash on fastest part of course<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;It&#8217;s the biggest victory of my career&#8217; &#8211; Demi Vollering&#8217;s team-based plan pays off with title in World Championship road race<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\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=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\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>\nLe Tour de Langkawi\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>A new twist for 30th year of Tour de Langkawi with trio of summit finishes that will have sprinters fighting to &#8216;just survive&#8217;<\/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 justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nSimone Giuliani <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-09-26T12:26:56Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n26 September 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">The Malaysian eight-stage race which has history as a sprinters showdown delivers a new climb on stage 2 and back-to-back HC summit finishes for stages 4 and 5<\/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<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Tour de Langkawi 2026 pre-race press conference with (L-R) Lennart Jasch (Tudor), Aaron Gate (XDS-Astana), Fernando Gaviria (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA), Geoffrey Bouchard (Total Energies), Aiman Rosli (Terengganu) and Muhammad Izzat Hilmi (Malaysia Pro Cycling)<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Tour de Langkawi 2026)<\/span><\/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 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tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\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-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\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-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-42c222e8-b989-11f1-8673-f99746b85082\">A win is never all there is at stake in any race, but somehow at Le Tour de Langkawi it&#8217;s a fact that doesn&#8217;t quietly tap away in the background but leaps into the spotlight with a deafening roar.<\/p>\n<p>For a start, the long-running Malaysian event offers a rare chance to launch a career, while for others it is a last chance to save it for those riders yet to secure a contract for 2027. Then there are the crucial points at stake in the never-ending relegation battle, and its current position near the end of the season also often makes it a farewell tour for riders who have decided, or had decided for them, that it is time to step away from the sport.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42c222e8-b989-11f1-8673-f99746b85082-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Altogether, it delivers the ingredients for a heady and emotion-filled, no-holds-barred battle with the backdrop of an exotic location plus a hot and humid climate which will have the riders raising a sweat even just walking to sign in at the start of each of the eight stages from September 27 to October 4.<\/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-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/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\">The race, which pulls together teams from the WorldTour, ProTour, Continental ranks and national teams for a race in a region which prizes its high-level UCI race opportunities, given they are limited, will also be throwing some new elements into the mix for its 30th edition this year.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Usually the sprinters are in focus for much of the event, with a decisive climbing day in the mix that is often decisive in the General Classification battle, but this year there are three summit finishes to add fire to the overall fight, with organisers pointing to the race as among the toughest editions ever.<\/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\"><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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;The sprinters still have a chance&#8217; &#8211; Former Champs-Elys\u00e9es winners give thumbs up to longer run-in from Butte Montmartre on Tour de France final stage<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Where are all the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a sprinters? They&#8217;re heading to Belgium instead<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s a welcome move for the riders who enjoy the uphill, but the sprinters and others who may not be pure climbers but perhaps thought they may be able to hang in there for one day and have a shot at the GC.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Yeah, the organisers have done a good job of removing any hope for riders like myself of having any chance at the GC with how hard they&#8217;ve made it this year,&#8221; quipped Aaron Gate (XDS-Astana), the winner of the final stage of last year&#8217;s race.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD 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\">Sprinter Fernando Gaviria (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA)was even more succinct when asked what he thought about the trio of climbing days: &#8220;For me it&#8217;s just survive.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These will be days when the fast men become allies in the autobus, looking to beat the time limit rather than enemies, getting through so they can battle once again. Those among the key sprint contenders include last year&#8217;s three-time winner Matteo Malucelli (XDS-Astana) \u2013 although we are yet to see if there may be any impact in stage from a training crash on Saturday that saw him quickly subbed out of the pre-race media conference line-up as his teammate Gate was subbed in.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The potential sprint competition includes the five-time Giro d&#8217;Italia and two-time Tour de France stage winner Gaviria along with Modern Adventure&#8217;s Riley Pickrell, though the Canadian rider is unfortunately one teammate down even before the race has even begun. Leo Hayter posted on social media that while he made the journey to Malaysia, he then discovered that he had pericarditis, so he has had to end his season.<\/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\"><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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;You have to take every opportunity you get&#8217; &#8211; After four days of suffering Tim Merlier is ready for first sprint of 2026 Tour de France<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><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 18 preview &#8211; First of three summit finishes to ignite polka dot jersey contest<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Gravel, time trials and the &#8216;Angliru of the south&#8217; \u2013 The five key stages that will decide the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There is only one flat stage for the sprinters \u2013 from Shah Alam to Kampar \u2013 before the climbing begins, with the introduction of the new ascent of Gunung Jerai as a shorter but steep finale for stage 2. Stage 3 then delivers an early category 2 challenge, which could well be a break launching point, though it flattens to give the fast-finishers another potential chance in Kuala Kangsar.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But the next two stages, with their long and challenging ascents to the finish line, are unquestionably all about the climbers. These include new revelation speed-skater turned cyclist Jasch Lennart (Tudor), Jan Castellon (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA), Nicolas Breuillard (Total Energies), Harold Mart\u00edn L\u00f3pez (XDS-Astana) and Jonathan Caicedo (Wheeltop Rotor Chengdu), who won the 2.Pro ranked Tour of Magnificent Qinghai in July.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the Ecuadorian champion, who in 2020 won a Giro stage on top of Mount Etna, was asked if he considered himself the favourite, Caicedo said, &#8220;My goal is a top ten finish in the race. I was training very hard in Ecuador; I think I&#8217;m good for the race, I&#8217;m ready for this.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Stage 4 heads into the Cameron Highlands \u2013 where overall race winner Simon Carr claimed victory in 2023 \u2013 with the road steadily ascending for more than 40km to the line. Then there is a second stage in a row that is finishing with a Hors-category climb, as the race on stage finishes in the Genting Highlands, which is an ascent that crowned Max Poole as the winner in 2024.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From there, stage 6 from Pandan Indah to Rembau offers some early category 3 challenges but flattens out after the first 20km, while stage 7 from the vibrant historical location of Melaka to Batu Pahat has nothing in the way of obstacles for the sprinters but the final stage to Putrajaya delivers a category 3 climb 50km from the line which could prove a launching point for an attack as the very last chance at a tour filled with riders looking for them unfolds.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9075a64c-b9a5-11f1-b918-4fb822370658\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">*<em>Cyclingnews attended Le Tour de Langkawi on an invitation\/media package from the race that included travel and accommodation. In line with our editorial standards, our coverage is independent and was not subject to review, approval or influence by the organiser or any sponsor; no favourable coverage was promised or given in return.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio slice-container-authorBio\" id=\"slice-container-authorBio\" data-component-name=\"Slice:AuthorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-author-bio-max-height=\"250\" data-author-bio-read-more=\"Read more\" data-author-bio-read-less=\"Read less\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">\n<p>Simone Giuliani<\/p>\n<\/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\">\nSocial Links Navigation\n<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Australia Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Simone is a degree-qualified journalist that has accumulated decades of wide-ranging experience while working across a variety of leading media organisations. She joined <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> as a Production Editor at the start of the 2021 season and has now moved into the role of Australia Editor. Previously she worked as a freelance writer, Australian Editor at <em>Ella CyclingTips<\/em> and as a correspondent for <em>Reuters<\/em> and <em>Bloomberg<\/em>. Cycling was initially purely a leisure pursuit for Simone, who started out as a business journalist, but in 2015 her career focus also shifted to the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\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=\"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<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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;The sprinters still have a chance&#8217; &#8211; Former Champs-Elys\u00e9es winners give thumbs up to longer run-in from Butte Montmartre on Tour de France final stage<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Where are all the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a sprinters? They&#8217;re heading to Belgium instead<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;You have to take every opportunity you get&#8217; &#8211; After four days of suffering Tim Merlier is ready for first sprint of 2026 Tour de France<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de France 2026 stage 18 preview &#8211; First of three summit finishes to ignite polka dot jersey contest<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Gravel, time trials and the &#8216;Angliru of the south&#8217; \u2013 The five key stages that will decide the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BhB55ycJL3WLp4vSnmSCeC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Matteo Malucelli reasserts Le Tour de Langkawi sprint power with stage 1 victory in photo finish with Riley Pickrell<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There is definitely a beauty of having a competitor that&#8217;s so strong&#8217; &#8211; Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney second best in explosive battle against Dutch rival at Road World Championships<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There were a lot of people racing for second&#8217; \u2013 Frustrated Marlen Reusser rues mistake in World Championships road race after narrowly missing podium in fourth<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s the biggest victory of my career&#8217; &#8211; Demi Vollering&#8217;s team-based plan pays off with title in World Championship road race<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We will just lick our wounds and come back for more&#8217; &#8211; Kate Courtney&#8217;s debut at Road World Championships ends early after crash on fastest part of course<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We were always together&#8217; &#8211; Juliette Berthet says three French riders in the top-10 in Montreal signals a strong future ahead of Haute-Savoie Super Worlds in 2027<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uXiYiJczgSr6n4PeyA2txh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Yes, put me in&#8217; &#8211; Riley Sheehan gets his call to compete for USA at Road Worlds hours after finishing GP Montreal and flying to Paris<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CrTGuJjP85WjMJoVWT44SA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There is definitely a beauty of having a competitor that&#8217;s so strong&#8217; &#8211; Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney second best in explosive battle against Dutch rival at Road World Championships<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vgfSf2RcEkXpRrkgCoLLf-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;There were a lot of people racing for second&#8217; \u2013 Frustrated Marlen Reusser rues mistake in World Championships road race after narrowly missing podium in fourth<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eo5bkmFSY9e4FcpTsoK8ZQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s the biggest victory of my career&#8217; &#8211; Demi Vollering&#8217;s team-based plan pays off with title in World Championship road race<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FcQHZ3o5kiSQwp7zAn8fAD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We will just lick our wounds and come back for more&#8217; &#8211; Kate Courtney&#8217;s debut at Road World Championships ends early after crash on fastest part of course<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gns7uch6QzD93MQGviHGSH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We were always together&#8217; &#8211; Juliette Berthet says three French riders in the top-10 in Montreal signals a strong future ahead of Haute-Savoie Super Worlds in 2027<\/span><\/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=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/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=\"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=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/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>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/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\">\n<p>A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;Yes, put me in&#8217; &#8211; Riley Sheehan gets his call to compete for USA at Road Worlds hours after finishing GP Montreal and flying to Paris<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;There is definitely a beauty of having a competitor that&#8217;s so strong&#8217; &#8211; Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney second best in explosive battle against Dutch rival at Road World Championships<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;We will just lick our wounds and come back for more&#8217; &#8211; Kate Courtney&#8217;s debut at Road World Championships ends early after crash on fastest part of course<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;It&#8217;s the biggest victory of my career&#8217; &#8211; Demi Vollering&#8217;s team-based plan pays off with title in World Championship road race<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\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>\nLe Tour de Langkawi\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>A new twist for 30th year of Tour de Langkawi with trio of summit finishes that will have sprinters fighting to &#8216;just survive&#8217;<\/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 justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nSimone Giuliani <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-09-26T12:26:56Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n26 September 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">The Malaysian eight-stage race which has history as a sprinters showdown delivers a new climb on stage 2 and back-to-back HC summit finishes for stages 4 and 5<\/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 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 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\"><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 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-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\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-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\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-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-42c222e8-b989-11f1-8673-f99746b85082\">A win is never all there is at stake in any race, but somehow at Le Tour de Langkawi it&#8217;s a fact that doesn&#8217;t quietly tap away in the background but leaps into the spotlight with a deafening roar.<\/p>\n<p>For a start, the long-running Malaysian event offers a rare chance to launch a career, while for others it is a last chance to save it for those riders yet to secure a contract for 2027. Then there are the crucial points at stake in the never-ending relegation battle, and its current position near the end of the season also often makes it a farewell tour for riders who have decided, or had decided for them, that it is time to step away from the sport.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42c222e8-b989-11f1-8673-f99746b85082-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Altogether, it delivers the ingredients for a heady and emotion-filled, no-holds-barred battle with the backdrop of an exotic location plus a hot and humid climate which will have the riders raising a sweat even just walking to sign in at the start of each of the eight stages from September 27 to October 4.<\/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-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/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\">The race, which pulls together teams from the WorldTour, ProTour, Continental ranks and national teams for a race in a region which prizes its high-level UCI race opportunities, given they are limited, will also be throwing some new elements into the mix for its 30th edition this year.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Usually the sprinters are in focus for much of the event, with a decisive climbing day in the mix that is often decisive in the General Classification battle, but this year there are three summit finishes to add fire to the overall fight, with organisers pointing to the race as among the toughest editions ever.<\/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\"><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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BPNtppaxTUo5iLmsHJjhmV-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;The sprinters still have a chance&#8217; &#8211; Former Champs-Elys\u00e9es winners give thumbs up to longer run-in from Butte Montmartre on Tour de France final stage<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/j6Y2gjVCHWSan7nktJGaML-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/diuRNAzua2qpYv8MF4xsEQ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Where are all the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a sprinters? They&#8217;re heading to Belgium instead<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s a welcome move for the riders who enjoy the uphill, but the sprinters and others who may not be pure climbers but perhaps thought they may be able to hang in there for one day and have a shot at the GC.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">&#8220;Yeah, the organisers have done a good job of removing any hope for riders like myself of having any chance at the GC with how hard they&#8217;ve made it this year,&#8221; quipped Aaron Gate (XDS-Astana), the winner of the final stage of last year&#8217;s race.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-FgwJGWeiS8UShhwB4kj8tD 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\">Sprinter Fernando Gaviria (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA)was even more succinct when asked what he thought about the trio of climbing days: &#8220;For me it&#8217;s just survive.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These will be days when the fast men become allies in the autobus, looking to beat the time limit rather than enemies, getting through so they can battle once again. Those among the key sprint contenders include last year&#8217;s three-time winner Matteo Malucelli (XDS-Astana) \u2013 although we are yet to see if there may be any impact in stage from a training crash on Saturday that saw him quickly subbed out of the pre-race media conference line-up as his teammate Gate was subbed in.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The potential sprint competition includes the five-time Giro d&#8217;Italia and two-time Tour de France stage winner Gaviria along with Modern Adventure&#8217;s Riley Pickrell, though the Canadian rider is unfortunately one teammate down even before the race has even begun. Leo Hayter posted on social media that while he made the journey to Malaysia, he then discovered that he had pericarditis, so he has had to end his season.<\/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\"><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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cUiBWi6XKDEBM5QmoDuaxR-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;You have to take every opportunity you get&#8217; &#8211; After four days of suffering Tim Merlier is ready for first sprint of 2026 Tour de France<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bLLnAsN7saH8bWa68EufWW-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><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 18 preview &#8211; First of three summit finishes to ignite polka dot jersey contest<\/span><\/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    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/F2bK8PXsbcFyfsZ5xEpwYm-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Gravel, time trials and the &#8216;Angliru of the south&#8217; \u2013 The five key stages that will decide the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There is only one flat stage for the sprinters \u2013 from Shah Alam to Kampar \u2013 before the climbing begins, with the introduction of the new ascent of Gunung Jerai as a shorter but steep finale for stage 2. Stage 3 then delivers an early category 2 challenge, which could well be a break launching point, though it flattens to give the fast-finishers another potential chance in Kuala Kangsar.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But the next two stages, with their long and challenging ascents to the finish line, are unquestionably all about the climbers. These include new revelation speed-skater turned cyclist Jasch Lennart (Tudor), Jan Castellon (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA), Nicolas Breuillard (Total Energies), Harold Mart\u00edn L\u00f3pez (XDS-Astana) and Jonathan Caicedo (Wheeltop Rotor Chengdu), who won the 2.Pro ranked Tour of Magnificent Qinghai in July.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the Ecuadorian champion, who in 2020 won a Giro stage on top of Mount Etna, was asked if he considered himself the favourite, Caicedo said, &#8220;My goal is a top ten finish in the race. I was training very hard in Ecuador; I think I&#8217;m good for the race, I&#8217;m ready for this.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Stage 4 heads into the Cameron Highlands \u2013 where overall race winner Simon Carr claimed victory in 2023 \u2013 with the road steadily ascending for more than 40km to the line. Then there is a second stage in a row that is finishing with a Hors-category climb, as the race on stage finishes in the Genting Highlands, which is an ascent that crowned Max Poole as the winner in 2024.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From there, stage 6 from Pandan Indah to Rembau offers some early category 3 challenges but flattens out after the first 20km, while stage 7 from the vibrant historical location of Melaka to Batu Pahat has nothing in the way of obstacles for the sprinters but the final stage to Putrajaya delivers a category 3 climb 50km from the line which could prove a launching point for an attack as the very last chance at a tour filled with riders looking for them unfolds.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9075a64c-b9a5-11f1-b918-4fb822370658\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">*<em>Cyclingnews attended Le Tour de Langkawi on an invitation\/media package from the race that included travel and accommodation. In line with our editorial standards, our coverage is independent and was not subject to review, approval or influence by the organiser or any sponsor; no favourable coverage was promised or given in return.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/a-new-twist-for-30th-year-of-tour-de-langkawi-with-trio-of-summit-finishes-that-will-have-sprinters-fighting-to-just-survive\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zogajVFUHtACrYqrxGwoVT-2000-80.jpg&#8221;] 1 A wide open face-off between Evenepoel, Del Toro, Seixas, Van der Poel and more for the rainbow jersey \u2013 Analysing the World Championships elite men&#8217;s road race contenders 2 A Tour de Langkawi that has the potential to provide the first answers on Lennart Jasch&#8217;s development into a GC threat 3 [&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-2165912","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\/2165912","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=2165912"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2165912\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2165912"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2165912"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2165912"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}