The second stage travels entirely through the Basque country, a route spanning 210 kilometers from Vitoria to San Sebastian. This edition’s longest stage takes on a classic feel with five categorized climbs, including the decisive Jaizkibel summit situated just 16 kilometers from the finish line.
Expect plenty of drama from the moment the flag drops. The opening kilometers promise a fast tempo, tempting breakaways to form on easier terrain. Yet the real test lies ahead as a steady ladder of ascents and descents wears on the legs. The day could crystallize into a pivotal moment for the overall standings, with the strongest teams aiming to control the tempo and protect their general classification hopefuls until the finish.
The route unfolds with a sequence of climbs designed to punish any residual fatigue. Udana High appears early in the profile with a modest gradient of 5.1 percent over 4.5 kilometers, followed by the Cota de Aztiria which climbs at 2.7 percent across 5.3 kilometers. Around the 140-kilometer mark, the peloton reaches Alto de Alkiza, a 4.2-kilometer ascent with a steady grade that demands constant power. Next comes the Cota de Gurutze, a 2.6 percent ramp stretching 4.7 kilometers. The final test is Jaizkibel, the second category climb, standing 8.1 kilometers in length with a finishing tilt that could decide the stage. This sequence creates a pressure cooker scenario where teams evaluating climbers and punchy riders will weigh in with attacks and relays that test every rider’s limits.
Stage Profile and Televised Coverage for the 2nd Stage
Riders depart from Vitoria at 12:25 local time, with the finish expected somewhere between 17:00 and 17:30, depending on conditions and any strategic moves along the road.
Television coverage includes national and international outlets. The stage is broadcast on major channels and streaming platforms, giving fans multiple ways to follow the action as it unfolds from the Basque roads. Viewers can expect expert analysis during the breaks and live feed from the peloton, capturing the tempo changes and key moments as the field fights for position before the sprint finish or a late counter move. The broadcast arrangement aims to showcase the unique Basque terrain, the tight coureurs, and the tactical chess match between teams as they position their leaders for the final climb and the last kilometers to the line.
Notes from the organizers emphasize the importance of stage two in shaping the overall competition. A robust performance across the climbs, combined with disciplined teamwork on the descents, can carve out a significant advantage or erase a deficit. This makes the day crucial for riders hoping to stay near the front of the GC while also offering opportunities for breakaway specialists and sprinters with strong punch after the long, winding finish. The stage presents a clear narrative arc: early speed, mounting pressure on the uphill sections, and a dramatic conclusion on the final climb that tests both endurance and strategic acumen. Audience reactions and official updates are tracked across various outlets to ensure fans do not miss the pivotal moments of the Basque challenge.
Source disclosures and broadcast details are provided for viewers seeking the latest times and channel assignments. These notes are intended to support fans in following each move as the competition progresses through the Basque region, where the terrain and local support add a distinctive flavor to the race.