Tour de Suisse 2025: Preview stage 4: Italian detour over the Splügen Pass

The 4th stage in brief

• 18 June 2025
• Route length: 193.2 kilometres
• Altitude metres: 3067
• Start: Heiden
• Destination: Piuro (Valchiavena)
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• All stages of the Tour de Suisse 2025 at a glance
• Race report of the 4th stage

The Tour de Suisse 2025 reaches its first climax on 18 June with the 4th stage. The 193.2-kilometre route from Heiden to Piuro will take the riders over a major Alpine pass for the first time in this tour and promises to be a first preliminary decision in the battle for the overall standings. With an elevation gain of 3067 metres and the 2110-metre-high Splügen Pass as the main obstacle, the stage represents the biggest challenge for the peloton to date. The finish in Piuro in Valchiavenna, Italy, also marks a special feature of this Tour de Suisse, as it crosses national borders.

Key role of the Splügen Pass

The Splügen Pass forms the centrepiece of this stage. At 2110 metres above sea level, it is not only a physical challenge for the teams, but also a tactical one. The ascent to the pass demands everything from the riders and offers the classification riders an ideal platform to launch attacks and gain time on their rivals. The significance of this climb goes beyond the mere sporting challenge. The Splügen Pass is part of the historic Via Spluga, a cultural and historical hiking trail that has characterised the region for centuries.

Tactical considerations and course of the race

The start in Heiden, high above Lake Constance, offers the riders a picturesque view before the serious phase of the race begins. The first few kilometres could be used to launch breakaway attempts and establish an escape group. However, given the importance of this stage, the peloton will be vigilant and try to limit the lead of any escapees. An important tactical point on the route is Sargans Castle, which the riders will pass. Here, in the 900-year-old tower, the history of Sarganserland is reflected - a highly symbolic location that could mark the transition into the decisive phase of the race. The teams of the favourites will start to position their captains for the upcoming climb to the Splügen Pass here at the latest.

Decision at the destination Piuro

The finish in Piuro promises a spectacular finale to this stage. The Italian village in Valchiavenna, known for the Acquafraggia waterfalls, forms a picturesque backdrop for the day's decision. The last few kilometres after the descent from the Splügen Pass will show who has coped best with the day's exertions and may be able to take the lead in the overall classification. Positioning at the finish in Piuro could be decisive for the outcome of the stage.