Tour de France 2023: Basque Stages to Inspire Attacks and Early GC Battle
By | Published 30 June 2023 | New York Times
Tough Start in the Basque Country
The Tour de France is known for its challenging stages and fierce competition. However, the 2023 edition of the race promises to be even more intense, with the Grand Départ taking place in the Basque Country. This cycling-mad region of Spain offers a unique setting for the opening stages, which include tough climbs that will test the riders and set the tone for the rest of the race.
Stage 1, which takes place around the city of Bilbao, is predicted to be one of the hardest ever Tour de France starts. The climb to the finish is expected to create a small group of just 10-15 riders who will battle it out for the stage victory and the coveted yellow jersey. Slovenian rider Tadej Pogačar, from UAE Team Emirates, is considered a favorite to win this stage.
Stage 2, from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Donostia-San Sebastián, continues the challenging terrain of the Basque Country with another hilly route. The Jaizkibel climb, just 16km from the finish, will pose a significant challenge to the riders and could lead to attacks and a battle for General Classification (GC) positioning.
High-Stakes and Thrilling Grand Départ
The opening stages of the Tour de France in the Basque Country are expected to create significant time gaps between the GC contenders. By the time the race reaches France on stage 3, some riders may already be out of contention for the overall win. The high-stakes and thrilling nature of the Grand Départ will make for compelling viewing and set the stage for an exciting three weeks of racing.
Historic Return to the Basque Country
The last time the Tour de France started in the Basque Country was in 1992, in San Sebastián. Political unrest and independence protests had prevented the race from returning to the region until now. The Basque regions of Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa have reportedly paid 12 million Euro to host the Grand Départ, both to cater to the local cycling fans and to promote the area globally.
Basque fans, known for their passion and knowledge of the sport, turned out in large numbers for the team presentation in Bilbao. The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd cheering for every rider as they made their way through the Parque República de Abando gardens. Hundreds of thousands of Basque cycling fans are expected to line the roads during the three stages, adding to the excitement and creating a spectacle reminiscent of the Marea Naranja – the orange tide – that used to cheer on the Basque Euskaltel-Euskadi team in years past.
Expectations and Predictions
Riders are preparing for a tough and demanding few days in the Basque Country. British rider Simon Yates predicts a “crazy, crazy” start to the Tour, with huge crowds and intense racing. He believes that these stages are tailor-made for climbers and sees an opportunity for aggressive riders to make a move and take the yellow jersey.
The opening stage, in particular, is expected to be a fight for position and a battle for survival. The difficult climbs, including the punishing Pike Bideo, will push riders to their limits and potentially lead to time gaps among the GC contenders. Crashes could also play a role in determining the outcome of the race, making it crucial for riders to stay alert and avoid mistakes.
Editorial: A Test of Grit and Determination
The Tour de France is more than just a sporting event; it is a test of strength, endurance, and mental fortitude. The challenging terrain and demanding stages in the Basque Country will push the riders to their limits and reveal who has what it takes to compete for the coveted yellow jersey.
Stage 1, with its steep climbs and punishing finish, will separate the contenders from the pretenders. The small group of riders who make it to the finish together will have proven themselves as the strongest and most determined in the peloton.
As the race moves into France on stage 3, it will become clear who has come prepared and who has faltered. The early time gaps could spell disaster for some riders’ GC ambitions, while others will see it as an opportunity to gain an advantage and establish themselves as the top contenders.
The return of the Tour de France to the Basque Country is not only a celebration of cycling but also a testament to the resilience and spirit of the region. The end of violence and independence protests has allowed the race to return and showcase the beauty of the Basque Country to a global audience.
Advice: Stay Tuned for a Thrilling Start
The opening stages of the Tour de France in the Basque Country promise to be action-packed and full of excitement. Cycling fans around the world should not miss the chance to witness the intensity and drama of these early battles for the yellow jersey.
Keep an eye on riders like Tadej Pogačar, Jonas Vingegaard, and Julian Alaphilippe, who are expected to be in the thick of the action. Watch out for attacks on the challenging climbs and be prepared for unexpected twists and turns in the race.
Make sure to tune in for the Grand Départ and follow the progress of the riders as the race unfolds. It will be a true test of grit and determination, and an opportunity to witness the making of a Tour de France champion.
<< photo by Coen van de Broek >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
