This afternoon the tour party in Copenhagen reaches its climax. The first yellow jersey of the 109th Tour of France is awarded in a 13.2-kilometer time trial.
The 109th Tour de France begins today in Copenhagen with a 13.2 kilometer individual time trial. The weather could play a crucial role.
Route:
The first working day lasts only about a quarter of an hour. The time trial course through downtown Copenhagen is completely flat, but the more than 20 corners make the course technically difficult. In addition, according to reports from some drivers, the asphalt is said to have its pitfalls. The weather is likely to play a much larger role. Rain showers are forecast for the afternoon. That’s why the top drivers opted for early start times. Challenger Primoz Roglic drives at 4.20 p.m., Tour champion Tadej Pogacar at 5.05 p.m. just ahead of world champion Filippo Ganna and all-rounder Wout van Aert. The first driver starts at 4 p.m., at 6.55 p.m. the last professional rolls off the ramp.
Favorites:
There are many indications of a duel between Ganna and van Aert. Ganna has had a new time trial suit specially tailored and is also on a new and even more aerodynamic racing machine. Mathieu van der Poel also has small chances. The all-rounder from the Netherlands also wears a new tailored suit. Cost point: 3000 euros.
German chances:
Lennard Kämna surprised at the Giro d’Italia with eighth place in a time trial that was four kilometers shorter. A similar performance can be expected from the German champions in Copenhagen. Max Walscheid, also a strong time trialist, sees little chance of a good placement because he has not yet found the optimal setup with his new team Cofidis.
