There may be excellent news for Tour de France followers, with PezCyclingNews reporting that the long-lasting Puy de Dome stretch returns subsequent yr. One of many youngest volcanoes within the Massif Central, the lava dome was the scene of many spectacular moments whereas internet hosting the race beforehand and affords a difficult experience to the cyclists. The route itself primarily spirals across the slope and will get steeper the upper you climb, with the added problem of robust winds buffeting the riders.
First used again in 1952, the slopes witnessed one of many race’s most historic battles as four-time race winner Jacques Anquetil fought shoulder-to-shoulder with Raymond Poulidor in 1964 as a part of a rivalry that outlined the period. The previous possessed an innate want to win and an class that might drive him by way of the ache barrier, however he by no means matched the adoration the extra down-to-earth Poulidor obtained from the plenty
With a lead of slightly below a minute, Anquetil was pushing laborious for the yellow jersey, however Poulidor, with years of underachievement behind him, was decided to not cede the lead as soon as he gained it. It appeared consistent with their rivalry that Poulidor, nicknamed the Everlasting Second, would go on to win the race after an epic battle up the hill which had the entire of France watching on. They have been actually facet by facet for a protracted stretch with faces etched in ache and dedication, however Anquetil retained the jersey. In comparison with that almighty tussle, Belgian champion Eddy Merckx being punched by a spectator in 1975 appears nearly insignificant.
Nonetheless, the volcano was shut in 1988 for the development of a railway line up the slender street, and the ensuing lack of house meant the race organizers needed to look elsewhere. Till now.
Now that the Dome is again, who can we count on to see make a reputation for themselves, and might we count on any extra iconic race reminiscences to be carved out on its legendary slopes? Coral’s Tour de France odds have Jonas Vingegaard because the possible winner of the occasion, and for good purpose. The 25-year-old gained in 2022, having worn the yellow jacket for 11 straight phases, however he can count on stiff competitors subsequent time round.
Amongst these anticipated to be difficult Vingegaard is Tadej Pogacar. The Slovenian gained the Tour de Frace in 2020 and 2021 earlier than being knocked off the pedestal by the Dane final yr regardless of beginning the race properly. One other earlier winner, Colombia’s Egan Bernal, shall be an attention-grabbing one to observe. Winner in 2019, Bernal suffered a number of accidents after colliding with a bus whereas coaching initially of the yr, however regardless of that accident, was again within the saddle in the direction of the year-end. His followers will hope his restoration from the accidents will present the impetus to push him to regain his title.
Whoever goes on to win the well-known race, the return to the legendary Puy de Dome will definitely assure elevated curiosity in biking’s final problem.
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