Montmartre Threatens To Turn The Paris Parade Into A Classic

The Tour de France will end with a final stage that bears little resemblance to the traditional procession towards the Champs-Élysées. Although the route has been shortened to 89 kilometres because of the wildfires affecting France, the three passages over the cobbled climb of Montmartre remain in place and promise an explosive battle in Paris.

The Côte de la Butte Montmartre is only around one kilometre long, with an average gradient of approximately 6.5%, but its cobbles, narrow streets and repeated ascents make it ideal for attacks. There is enough distance between the final summit and the finish for dropped riders to organise a chase, creating uncertainty between the specialists in the classics and the sprinters who survive.

Mathieu van der Poel appears to be the most obvious attacker. The Dutchman has the power and technical ability required to make the difference on Montmartre, while Alpecin-Premier Tech can still keep Jasper Philipsen protected in case the race comes back together for a reduced sprint.

Mads Pedersen will also have freedom after securing the green jersey. The Danish rider can withstand hard racing and has the finishing speed to win from a small group. Remco Evenepoel, Tadej Pogačar and Tom Pidcock are other dangerous options if the favourites decide to turn the final laps into a one-day race.

For Pogačar, the primary objective is to complete the stage and confirm his fifth Tour victory. His 6:26 advantage over Evenepoel appears untouchable, but the presence of Montmartre means the yellow jersey cannot switch off completely. Rain is also possible in Paris, which could increase the risks on the cobbles and descents.

The final day will therefore combine celebration and competition. There will be photographs, champagne and tributes before the race intensifies, but once the peloton reaches Montmartre, the traditional parade will give way to one last fight for one of the Tour’s most prestigious stage victories.