“Sprint” is set to be the clear concluding note of the 179.8-kilometer eleventh stage of the Tour de France, running from Clermont-Ferrand to Moulins. This leg purposefully steers away from the steep climbs and keeps the focus on a fast finish, inviting a group sprint rather than a breakaway showdown. After the demanding day around Puy de Dôme, followed by a rest day and the punishing test of Issoire, the peloton’s fastest riders will need to bring their best form to claim one of the coveted stage victories that lie ahead. The route crosses the Auvergne’s volcanic landscapes but prioritizes a straight path toward a compact, mid-sized town that has never before hosted a stage of this race, adding a new chapter to Tour history.
Along the way, the riders will pass through Montluçon, a town known for its sporting legacy and as the birthplace of a celebrated world champion who has achieved multiple titles. This moment marks a turning point as the route advances toward a broad, 900-meter plain where sprint specialists will be tested to their limits, and the champion of the day will be crowned in a battle that rewards speed, timing, and teamwork.
Route
The eleventh stage will trace a course from Clermont-Ferrand to Moulins, covering a total distance of 179.8 kilometers. The day’s plan emphasizes a relatively flat profile with a few minor undulations designed to keep the pace high and the group intact, setting the stage for a high-stakes sprint finish in the closing kilometers.
Calendar
Departure: 13:25 (11:25 GMT). The timetable is arranged to balance optimal riding conditions with spectator access across towns along the route, ensuring a lively atmosphere while maintaining a controlled, safe sprint sequence for teams and riders alike.