Tadej Pogacar begins his bid to become only the fifth rider in history to win the Tour de France five times. Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault and Miguel Indurain make up the exclusive club — and the Slovenian arrives looking as untouchable as any of them.
Route and Key Stages
From an early test in the Pyrenees to the demanding climbs of the Vosges, the route builds towards a potentially decisive final week in the Alps — including two visits to the iconic Alpe d'Huez. On paper, it's a Tour built for drama. In reality, it may take something truly extraordinary to stop the sport's standout force of the modern era.
British Hopes and Future Tour
British fans also have plenty to look ahead to beyond this summer: in 2027, the Tour returns to UK shores for a Grand Départ and three stages through Scotland, England and Wales — a major homecoming following Britain's golden era of Tour success, from Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome to Geraint Thomas.
For this year's race, home interest remains strong. Tom Pidcock brings undeniable all-round talent and already has an Alpe d'Huez win to his name, while Scot Oscar Onley returns with Grand Tour pedigree — grateful to be on the start line after a recent frightening crash.
Pogacar's Dominance
But with Pogacar in this kind of form, the story is simple: can anyone find a way to beat him — or are we watching the next chapter in a march towards cycling greatness?
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