The 2025 Tour de France is set for another epic showdown as Stage 14 takes riders through the heart of the Pyrenees, featuring the legendary Col du Tourmalet. This gruelling mountain stage could be decisive in determining this year's yellow jersey contender.
The Route: A True Test of Endurance
Starting in Pau, the 152km stage winds through picturesque valleys before the real challenge begins. Riders will face three categorised climbs:
- Col d'Aubisque (16.6km at 7.1%) - A tough warm-up for what's to come
- Col du Soulor (11.9km at 7.8%) - A brutal connector climb
- Col du Tourmalet (17.1km at 7.3%) - The 'Giant of the Pyrenees' awaits
Tourmalet: The Queen of the Mountains
First included in the Tour in 1910, the Tourmalet has become synonymous with cycling's greatest race. The 17km ascent features sections at 10% gradient, with the final kilometres offering no respite before the summit at 2,115m altitude.
Weather often plays a crucial role, with fog and sudden temperature drops adding to the challenge. The thin air at altitude makes this one of the most demanding climbs in professional cycling.
Tactical Considerations
Team strategies will be crucial on this stage:
- Early breakaways likely to form on the Aubisque
- GC contenders will conserve energy for the Tourmalet showdown
- Descending specialists could gain time on the technical drops
With the race likely to reach the Tourmalet in the afternoon heat, hydration and energy management will be critical factors in this potentially race-defining stage.
