On July 8, the Tour de France will feature a challenging stage stretching 174 kilometers from Amiens to Rouen. This route not only traverses picturesque landscapes but also honors two iconic French literary figures: Jules Verne, known for his adventurous tales, and Gustave Flaubert, who wrote about the intricacies of everyday life. The stage is anticipated to deliver a mix of excitement reminiscent of Verne’s novels, particularly given the hilly terrain nearing the finish.
Amiens, celebrated for its Gothic cathedral and as Verne’s residence during his prolific writing period, will serve as the starting point. From there, competitors will embark on a south-westward journey into Normandy, culminating in Rouen, home to another impressive cathedral that inspired Claude Monet and a literary scene anchored by Flaubert’s critique of mundanity in works like “Madame Bovary.”
Historically, the last stage in Rouen during the 2012 Tour was characterized by a dull sprint finish, though this year’s route, with five categorized climbs in the final 50 kilometers, promises a more dynamic race. The riders will face significant challenges, especially on the steep gradients which could spur attacks from both sprinters and General Classification (GC) contenders looking to gain seconds towards overall victory.
Among the favorites to excel in this arduous stage is Mathieu van der Poel from Alpecin‑Deceuninck, who enters with the yellow jersey after winning stage two. His skill on rolling terrain positions him as the leading competitor, particularly in the absence of his teammate Jasper Philipsen due to injury. Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) is another rider to watch, known for his speed and strong team support, while Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-Lease a Bike) is gaining traction with his aggressive riding on climbs.
Local rider Kévin Vauquelin could also make an impact, leveraging his familiarity with the Normandy roads. The robust climbs may challenge sprinters like Biniam Girmay and others to maintain their positions, especially with the terrain expected to test even the most versatile of riders.
As the stage draws near, the anticipation builds regarding whether it will channel the thrill of adventure associated with Verne’s stories or the deeper reflections inspired by Flaubert’s narratives. However, given the course’s inclines, it is expected to favor dynamic racing and aggressive tactics. A prediction suggests that Mathieu van der Poel might claim his second stage victory in this year’s Tour, further solidifying his lead.
With a blend of literary homage and sport, this stage promises to be a compelling chapter in the ongoing Tour de France saga.