The Cycling Podcast S13 Ep147: Unwrapping the 2026 Tour de France
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Oct 23, 2025 The hosts react to the exciting unveiling of the 2026 Tour de France route, analyzing its suspenseful structure designed to challenge even the strongest racers. They debate the implications of internet leaks and how these might influence the competition. Key stage highlights include a team time trial in Barcelona and the grueling Plateau de Solaison ascent. They also discuss the adjustments to the green jersey scoring system and tackle logistical challenges of crowd control on iconic climbs like Alpe d'Huez. Expect thrilling racing strategies ahead!
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Backloaded Route To Preserve Suspense
- The 2026 Tour is clearly designed to delay decisive GC battles until late in the race.
- ASO backloaded the hardest days to preserve suspense and aim for a climactic finale.
Insider Leaks Often Precede Presentations
- Lionel Birnie admits he often sees route leaks before official reveals via WhatsApp.
- He correctly guessed Alpe d'Huez would be used on consecutive days, one via the 21 hairpins.
Presentation Ceremony Feels Stuck In Time
- Lionel and Daniel reflect that the Tour presentation format barely changed in 25 years.
- They suggested it could be jazzed up into a more TV-friendly spectacle.