After a hectic day on the cobbles, the Tour de France peloton has a stage to catch its breath. At 219.9 kilometres, the longest section of this Tour from Binche in Belgium to Longwy offers breakaways a great opportunity.
Puncheur final
Of course, sprinters could also hope for a stage win. If it wasn't for the Cote de Pulventeux. This 800 metre long hill has an average gradient of twelve percent and is only five kilometres from the finish. The fastest pros, such as stage winners Fabio Jakobsen and Dylan Groenewegen, will probably be left behind here at the latest. The finish is on the crest of the 1.6 kilometre long Cote des Religieuses.
Roglic's pain
On Wednesday, Primoz Roglic repaired his dislocated shoulder himself. The Slovenian is determined to continue the Tour. The question is how much pain he will be in and whether Roglic will be able to sit well on his bike. Last year, the 32-year-old struggled for a few days after a serious crash before abandoning the race.
Sagan's dream
At the last Tour visit to Longwy five years ago, Peter Sagan won on the Cote des Religieuses. The Slovakian even slipped off a pedal in the final metres. After a few lean years, Sagan is back in better form at this Tour and was always well in the sprints. The arrival in Longwy should bring back memories and perhaps Sagan will repeat his victory.
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