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Tour de France Tackles the Pyrénées on Stage 12

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

BREAKING: Olympic Cycling Insights Unpacked: What to Know About Track and Field Events

As the roar of the crowd echoes through the velodrome and the grit of the cross-country course calls to athletes, a deeper understanding of Olympic cycling events is crucial for any fan. Velo.outsideonline.com has provided a closer look at the intricacies of these demanding disciplines, offering valuable insights for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Decoding the velodrome: A Coach’s Perspective

Benjamin Sharp, a seasoned coach for Team USA’s men’s track cycling program and a former coach for the women’s team, demystifies the array of events contested on the velodrome. From the aggressive tactics of the Elimination and Points races to the raw speed of the Sprint and the strategic brilliance of the Madison and Team Pursuit, Sharp breaks down the unique challenges and skills required for each. Understanding these nuances transforms spectator experience, highlighting the tactical battles and sheer power on display.

Evergreen Insight: Track cycling is a sport of precision and power. Each event, weather it’s a test of endurance or a sprint to the finish line, demands a unique blend of physical prowess and mental fortitude. The strategies employed by riders, frequently enough in teams, add a layer of complexity that rewards informed viewing.Inside the Olympic Experience: A Cross-Country Rider’s diary

Haley batten,a participant in the demanding cross-country mountain bike event,offers a personal glimpse into the Olympic journey. Her “Olympic Diaries” provide an intimate perspective on the preparation, the atmosphere, and the anticipation leading up to competition.from receiving Team USA gear to scouting the challenging course, Batten’s account humanizes the elite athletic pursuit.

Evergreen Insight: the Olympic Games are more than just the competitions themselves; they represent a pinnacle of dedication, teamwork, and national pride. The personal stories of athletes, thier trials, and their triumphs offer a profound connection for audiences, reminding us of the human spirit’s capacity for perseverance and achievement.

By delving into these accounts, fans can gain a richer thankfulness for the skill, strategy, and sheer determination that define Olympic cycling. Whether on the smooth, banked turns of the velodrome or the rugged terrain of the cross-country course, these athletes represent the very best of what the sport has to offer.

What tactical approaches might teams employ on stage 12 to exploit weaknesses of their competitors?

Table of Contents

Tour de France Tackles the Pyrénées on Stage 12

The Stage 12 Route: Saint-Gaudens to Plateau de Beille

Stage 12 of the 2025 Tour de France, taking place on July 18th, is a brutal mountain stage designed to truly test the general classification contenders as they enter the heart of the Pyrénées. starting in Saint-Gaudens,the 172km route culminates in a challenging ascent to the Plateau de Beille,a notoriously tough climb known for its sustained gradient and altitude. This stage is a key moment in the race, perhaps reshaping the overall standings. Expect fireworks as riders battle for position and time gains.

Key Stage Details & Profile

Date: July 18, 2025

Start: Saint-Gaudens

Finish: Plateau de Beille

distance: 172 km

Difficulty: Mountain

Elevation Gain: Approximately 4,200 meters

Key Climbs: Col de la Core (1,395m), Col d’Aubisque (1,709m), Plateau de Beille (1,775m)

The stage features two Category 1 climbs – the Col d’Aubisque and the final ascent to Plateau de Beille – making it a true test of endurance and climbing prowess. The descent from the Aubisque is technical and fast, demanding skill and courage from the riders.

Contenders for Stage Victory & GC Implications

Several riders are expected to be in contention for the stage win and notable time gains on the general classification.

Jonas Vingegaard: The defending champion will be looking to consolidate his lead and potentially extend it on the steep slopes of Plateau de beille. His climbing ability is world-class.

Tadej Pogačar: Pogačar, a two-time tour winner, is a formidable climber and a threat on any mountain stage. Expect aggressive attacks.

Carlos Rodríguez: Showing strong form, Rodríguez is a dark horse capable of a surprise attack and a potential stage win.

Remco evenepoel: The young Belgian is a strong time trialist and climber, and will be aiming to move up the general classification.

Jai Hindley: A proven Grand Tour climber, Hindley will be looking to challenge the frontrunners.

The Plateau de beille climb is known for its punishing gradient, often exceeding 10%, making it a perfect launchpad for attacks. Expect to see riders testing each other’s limits in the final kilometers. The stage could see significant shifts in the Tour de France standings.

Plateau de Beille: A Climber’s Graveyard

The Plateau de Beille is a legendary climb in the Tour de France, first featured in 2007.Its consistent gradient and high altitude (1,775m) make it exceptionally challenging.

Average Gradient: 7.9% over 15.8 km

Maximum Gradient: 10.5%

Altitude at Summit: 1,775m

the thin air at this altitude adds another layer of difficulty, requiring riders to pace themselves carefully. Previous winners on Plateau de Beille include Alberto contador (2007) and Chris Froome (2017), showcasing the caliber of riders who can conquer this climb. Mountain stages like this are crucial for determining the ultimate winner of the Tour de France.

Tactical Considerations for Stage 12

Team tactics will play a crucial role in Stage 12.

  1. Protecting the Leader: Teams with riders high on the general classification will focus on protecting their leader from attacks and ensuring they have teammates to pace them on the climbs.
  2. Launching Attacks: Teams without a clear GC contender may look to launch opportunistic attacks to gain stage victories or disrupt the race.
  3. Controlling the Pace: Controlling the pace on the climbs is essential for dictating the rhythm of the race and tiring out rivals.
  4. Exploiting Weaknesses: Identifying and exploiting the weaknesses of competitors is a key tactical element.

Expect to see teams like Jumbo-Visma and UAE Team Emirates controlling the pace for much of the stage, attempting to isolate their rivals. Cycling strategy* is paramount in these demanding stages.

Ancient Context: Pyrénées & the Tour de France

The Pyrénées mountains have been a recurring feature of the Tour de France as 1910, providing a dramatic backdrop for some of the most iconic moments in cycling history. The range is known for its unpredictable weather, challenging climbs,

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Sport

Abrahamsen Wins! Pogacar, Healy – Cycling Results 🏆

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

The New Era of Resilience in Pro Cycling: From Comeback Stories to Rider Safety

A broken collarbone just four weeks ago wouldn’t have been a footnote in most athletes’ stories. For Jonas Abrahamsen, it’s the prologue to a stunning stage 11 victory at the Tour de France. His win, alongside the continued yellow jersey defense of Ben Healy despite a chaotic stage marred by a Tadej Pogačar crash, isn’t just about individual triumphs; it’s a powerful signal of a shifting landscape in professional cycling – one increasingly defined by resilience, unexpected contenders, and a growing reckoning with rider safety.

The Rise of the Underdog and the Democratization of Victory

Abrahamsen’s story is emblematic of a trend gaining momentum. Traditionally, the Tour has been dominated by a handful of superteams and established stars. While those forces remain potent, we’re seeing a surge in success from teams like Uno-X Mobility, demonstrating that strategic riding, sheer determination, and a bit of luck can disrupt the established order. This isn’t simply a feel-good narrative; it’s a reflection of increased investment in smaller teams, improved training methodologies becoming more widely accessible, and a willingness to take calculated risks.

This “democratization” of victory has significant implications. It increases the unpredictability of races, making them more exciting for fans. It also forces larger teams to adapt, potentially leading to more innovative tactics and a greater emphasis on scouting and developing talent from outside the traditional cycling powerhouses.

Healy’s Yellow: A Testament to Aggression and Tactical Awareness

Ben Healy’s continued hold on the yellow jersey is equally compelling. His aggressive riding style and the tactical awareness shown by his EF Education-Easypost team are keeping him at the front, despite facing the immense pressure from cycling giants like Visma-Lease a Bike and UAE Team Emirates. Healy’s situation highlights a growing trend: the importance of stage hunting and opportunistic attacks, particularly in the early stages of a Grand Tour. Teams are realizing that consistently placing riders in breaks and capitalizing on opportunities can yield significant rewards, even against riders with superior climbing or time-trialing abilities.

Pogačar’s Crash and the Urgent Need for Enhanced Rider Safety

However, the day’s most dramatic moment – Tadej Pogačar’s crash – served as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers of professional cycling. While crashes are unfortunately common, the frequency and severity of incidents in recent races, including earlier falls for Pogačar at Strade Bianche and Paris-Roubaix, are raising serious concerns. The incident, caused by a rider swinging across his path, underscores the need for improved safety protocols, better course design, and potentially even technological solutions to mitigate risks.

The decision by Healy and the GC contenders to wait for Pogačar, despite the potential to gain time, was a powerful display of sportsmanship. It reflects an unwritten rule within the peloton, but also highlights the growing awareness of the collective responsibility to protect riders. However, relying solely on unwritten rules isn’t enough. Cycling needs to proactively address safety concerns before more serious injuries occur. Research from the University of Bath has explored the biomechanics of cycling crashes and potential mitigation strategies, emphasizing the need for a multi-faceted approach. [University of Bath Cycling Crash Research]

The Future of Safety: Technology and Course Design

Looking ahead, several avenues for improving rider safety are being explored. These include:

  • Advanced Warning Systems: Utilizing sensors and real-time data analysis to alert riders to potential hazards.
  • Course Modifications: Reducing the number of technical descents and narrow sections, particularly in the final kilometers of stages.
  • Improved Protective Gear: Developing more effective helmets and body armor.
  • Virtual Reality Training: Allowing riders to practice navigating dangerous sections of courses in a safe, controlled environment.

What Does This Mean for the Rest of the Tour?

Stage 11 has thrown the Tour de France wide open. Healy’s lead, while still present, feels precarious heading into the summit finish at Hautacam. Pogačar, despite his injuries, remains a formidable contender, and the display of sportsmanship suggests his rivals won’t actively exploit his misfortune. The emergence of riders like Abrahamsen demonstrates that the race is far from a foregone conclusion. Expect more aggressive riding, more tactical surprises, and a continued focus on resilience as the Tour progresses.

The story of this year’s Tour isn’t just about who wins the yellow jersey; it’s about the evolving dynamics of the sport, the increasing importance of adaptability, and the urgent need to prioritize rider safety. What are your predictions for the remaining stages? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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News

Evenepoel Targets Tour de France’s Top Two

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Remco Evenepoel’s Tour de France Hopes Fade as Pogačar Dominates; Future with Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe rumored

remco Evenepoel’s pursuit of a Tour de France victory appears increasingly distant following a challenging start to the race, with many, including red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe’s Rolf Aldag, acknowledging the formidable presence of Tadej Pogačar. As the peloton navigates the grueling stages, whispers of Evenepoel’s potential move to Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe in 2026 are intensifying, though the young Belgian remains tight-lipped on the matter.

Aldag, speaking candidly, admitted the difficulty of overcoming Pogačar, stating, “We have to be realistic.” He expressed a hope for a tactical shift or an unforeseen chance, saying, “Maybe one day, there’s that perfect moment when the race opens up. Maybe there’s a standoff,where guys start looking at each other,and someone needs to close the gap. That could be the moment to strike, maybe for us, for Remco, for anyone still in the hunt who has the guts to race when the chance presents itself.” This sentiment highlights the unpredictable nature of Grand Tour racing,where strategic gambles can redefine outcomes.

The speculation surrounding Evenepoel’s future has been fueled by strong links to Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe. When questioned about these rumors, Evenepoel deflected, stating, “2026 is still far away, it’s obvious I can’t comment on these things.There is speculation, and we have to keep everybody happy.” He acknowledged the persistent rumors, noting, “Of course, there are a lot of things going on for a long time. I read a lot of things that are not true, unfortunately.” He also mentioned a discussion with his current team CEO, Jorgen Foré, to address concerns, concluding, “But we spoke about it, so everything is clear now. And that’s the answer.” This careful response, while respecting current contractual obligations, leaves the door open for significant career developments.

Evergreen Insights:

The Shadow of Dominance: The Tour de france frequently enough features riders who reach peaks of dominance. For rivals, the challenge is not just to perform but to find the tactical and physical edge to overcome such formidable leaders. This dynamic is a perpetual theme in cycling, requiring constant adaptation and innovation from competing teams and riders.
 Rider Mobility and Team Strategy: the transfer market in professional cycling is as crucial as racing strategy.Rumors of rider moves, especially for highly sought-after talents like Evenepoel, are a constant undercurrent. These potential shifts can dramatically alter the competitive landscape of future seasons, impacting team resources, rider growth, and overall race parity.
The Importance of Opportunity: Grand Tours are marathons, not sprints. Even in challenging situations,the window of opportunity can open unexpectedly. Riders and teams who remain strategically flexible and mentally resilient are often the ones who can capitalize on unforeseen circumstances, reinforcing the adage that “it ain’t over ’til it’s over.”
 Navigating Speculation: For athletes under intense public scrutiny, managing rumors and speculation is part of the job. Developing the ability to address such matters professionally while staying focused on immediate performance is a key indicator of a rider’s maturity and mental fortitude.

What specific training adjustments is Evenepoel making to improve his climbing performance and challenge Pogačar in the mountainous stages?

Table of Contents

Evenepoel Targets Tour de France’s Top Two

Remco Evenepoel’s Ambitious Goals for the 2025 Tour

Following a dominant performance in the individual time trial at the 112th tour de France, Remco Evenepoel has firmly set his sights on securing a top-two finish in the General Classification (GC). While Tadej Pogačar currently holds the coveted yellow jersey, Evenepoel’s time trial victory signals a serious challenge to Pogačar’s dominance and a clear indication of his evolving capabilities as a Grand Tour contender. This article delves into Evenepoel’s strategy, strengths, and the obstacles he faces in achieving this ambitious goal.

Analyzing evenepoel’s Time Trial Prowess

Evenepoel’s win in the first time trial wasn’t merely a victory; it was a statement. His exceptional performance highlights his world-class ability against the clock – a skill crucial for success in the Tour de France.

Aerodynamic Efficiency: Evenepoel’s position on the bike and equipment choices are optimized for minimal wind resistance.

power Output: He consistently demonstrates a high power-to-weight ratio, allowing him to maintain unbelievable speed over sustained efforts.

Technical Skill: Masterful cornering and pacing are hallmarks of his time trial technique.

This time trial success builds on his previous achievements, including his two individual time trial world championships, solidifying his reputation as one of the best time trialists in the world. The ability to gain significant time in individual time trials is a key component of his overall strategy for the Tour.

The Challenge of Matching Pogačar’s climbing Ability

While Evenepoel excels in time trials, tadej Pogačar is renowned for his climbing prowess. The mountainous stages of the Tour de France will be where Pogačar aims to extend his led. Evenepoel recognizes this and is actively working to improve his climbing performance.

Targeted Training: Increased focus on high-altitude training camps to enhance oxygen uptake and endurance.

Weight Management: Strategic adjustments to diet and training to optimize power-to-weight ratio for climbing stages.

team support: Reliance on a strong team to provide pacing and protection in the mountains.

Closing the gap on Pogačar in the mountains is arguably Evenepoel’s biggest challenge. He needs to limit his losses on the climbs and capitalize on opportunities to gain time elsewhere.

key Stages to Watch for Evenepoel

Several stages throughout the Tour de France will be pivotal in determining Evenepoel’s success.

  1. Mountain Stages in the Pyrenees: These stages will test Evenepoel’s climbing ability and provide opportunities for Pogačar to increase his lead.
  2. Individual Time Trial (Stage 2): As demonstrated in the opening stage,Evenepoel’s time trial skills are a major asset.
  3. Transition Stages: These stages,often with rolling terrain,coudl present opportunities for breakaways and tactical racing where evenepoel can gain time.

The Role of Team Strategy and Support

A successful Tour de France campaign isn’t solely about individual performance; it requires a well-executed team strategy. Evenepoel’s team, Soudal Rapid-Step, will play a crucial role in supporting his ambitions.

Protecting Evenepoel: Shielding him from wind and attacks, especially in crucial stages.

Controlling the Pace: Setting a tempo that suits Evenepoel’s strengths and disrupts Pogačar’s rythm.

Providing nutrition and Hydration: Ensuring Evenepoel is adequately fueled and hydrated throughout each stage.

The team’s ability to execute this strategy effectively will be critical to Evenepoel’s chances of success.

Analyzing Potential Rivals Beyond pogačar

While Pogačar is the clear favorite, other riders pose a threat to Evenepoel’s pursuit of a top-two finish. Contenders like Jonas Vingegaard, if fully recovered, and Carlos Rodriguez could challenge for the podium.

Jonas Vingegaard: A proven Grand Tour winner,Vingegaard’s recovery from injury will be a key factor.

Carlos Rodriguez: A rising star with strong climbing abilities, Rodriguez could be a dark horse for a high GC finish.

Other Potential Threats: Riders like Jai Hindley and Ben O’Connor could also feature prominently in the GC battle.

Evenepoel’s Mental Fortitude and Race Tactics

Beyond physical prowess, mental strength is paramount in a grueling race like the Tour de France. Evenepoel has demonstrated resilience and tactical awareness in previous races.

Staying Focused: Maintaining concentration and composure throughout the three-week race.

Adapting to changing Conditions: Adjusting race tactics based on weather, terrain, and the performance of rivals.

* Managing Pressure: Dealing with the expectations and scrutiny that come with being a top contender.

His ability to remain calm under pressure and make smart decisions will be crucial in

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Sport

Pogačar’s Pyrénées Power Play: Tour de France Domination

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

The Decisive Week: How Tadej Pogačar Plans to Rewrite the Tour de France Narrative

The yellow jersey may be temporarily residing with a breakaway rider, but don’t mistake the current calm for complacency. Tadej Pogačar isn’t merely aiming to reclaim the lead at the Tour de France; he’s meticulously plotting to dismantle his rivals in a second week poised to be more brutal than any seen in recent memory. With three consecutive summit finishes in the Pyrénées looming, the 2025 Tour is shaping up to be a battle of attrition where sheer climbing prowess will dictate the final outcome.

Pyrenean Peaks: The Crucible of Champions

Pogačar’s strategy is clear: exploit the unforgiving climbs of the Pyrénées to inflict maximum damage on Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel. He’s identified Hautacam and the climbing time trial at Peyragudes as pivotal stages, stating, “Those two stages are key for me.” This isn’t simply about gaining time; it’s about breaking the psychological hold his competitors might have. The steep gradients and relentless ascents will test not only physical endurance but also mental fortitude.

The Threat from Visma-Lease a Bike

While Pogačar holds a slender advantage – a one-minute lead over Evenepoel and 1:17 over the ever-dangerous Vingegaard – he’s acutely aware of the threat posed by Visma-Lease a Bike. Their “death of a thousand cuts” strategy, successfully employed in previous Tours and at the Giro d’Italia, aims to isolate and exhaust Pogačar through constant pressure. However, Pogačar believes a proactive, attacking approach is the best defense. “The main goal for everyone will be this week with the big mountains and the uphill time trial,” he asserted, signaling his intent to dictate the terms of engagement.

Beyond the Mountains: The Evolving Tactics of Grand Tour Cycling

The shift towards increasingly decisive second weeks in Grand Tours isn’t accidental. Race organizers are deliberately crafting routes that prioritize spectacle and reward aggressive riding. This trend, fueled by demands for more exciting television coverage and a desire to separate the contenders earlier in the race, is fundamentally altering the dynamics of professional cycling. Traditionally, the final week in the mountains was the sole arbiter of the general classification. Now, the second week is becoming equally, if not more, critical.

The Impact of Team Dynamics and Unexpected Challenges

The Tour is rarely a solo endeavor. UAE Emirates-XRG’s recent setbacks – the abandonment of João Almeida due to injury and Pavel Sivakov’s illness – highlight the fragility of team structures. These unforeseen circumstances underscore the importance of depth and resilience. A strong supporting cast is crucial for controlling the race, protecting the leader, and responding to attacks. The ability to adapt to adversity is a hallmark of successful Grand Tour contenders.

The Rise of the Climbing Time Trial: A New Decisive Discipline

The inclusion of a climbing time trial at Peyragudes is a particularly intriguing development. This hybrid discipline demands a unique blend of power, endurance, and technical skill. It favors riders who excel at both sustained climbing and time trialing, potentially disrupting the traditional hierarchy of Grand Tour contenders. This format rewards consistent effort and strategic pacing, adding another layer of complexity to the race. A recent study by Cycling Analytics demonstrates a clear correlation between performance in climbing time trials and overall GC success.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Grand Tour Strategy

Pogačar’s aggressive strategy in the Pyrénées isn’t just about winning this year’s Tour de France; it’s a statement about the future of Grand Tour cycling. The days of patiently waiting for the final week are over. The new paradigm demands proactive attacks, relentless pressure, and a willingness to take risks. The rider who can consistently deliver on these demands will be the one standing on the top step of the podium in Paris. If Pogačar can successfully navigate the challenges of the Pyrénées and establish a commanding lead, it will be exceptionally difficult for anyone to dethrone him.

What are your predictions for the decisive stages in the Pyrénées? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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