

Tour de France Stage 9 Preview | OŪTCOMES
Sprint Stages as Recovery Days
- Sprint stages after several hard stages serve as necessary recovery days for riders.
- Headwinds and flat terrain often lead to straightforward bunch sprints without successful breakaways.
Tim Merlier and Jonathan Milan Battle for Sprint Supremacy at Tour de France Stage 9
Stage 9 of the Tour de France is expected to be a classic bunch sprint on a flat 174 km route with no categorized climbs, perfect for sprinters to recover before the challenging Stage 10. Tim Merlier is favored to win, especially after recovering from a flat tire in the previous stage, and is considered the fastest rider in top speed. Jonathan Milan, the recent stage winner noted for his raw power and determined drive for the green jersey, is seen as Merlier's strongest rival in the sprint finish.
Sprinters like Merlier and Milan benefit from a flat finish allowing them to showcase top speed, while team tactics and lead-outs will play a critical role in who ultimately claims victory. Both riders are expected to contest the final sprint fiercely, with Milan possibly needing to expend effort at intermediate sprints for the green jersey points, potentially giving Merlier an edge. Additionally, young talents like Binyam Girmay and Caden Groves are strong wildcards for the podium, adding excitement to the sprint battle.
> "Merlier is usually good after a defeat, he's the fastest rider in pure speed, but Milan is the most powerful sprinter and with confidence from his recent win, he's for real in the green jersey... it's going to be a straight line tomorrow and not going to be easy."
— Johan Bruyneel
Milan's Power vs Merlier's Speed
- Jonathan Milan is the most powerful sprinter but lacks the top speed of Tim Merlier.
- Milan aims for the green jersey, which might affect how hard he sprints intermediate points.