Stage 13 brings a rare challenge in modern Grand Tours: a pure mountain time trial. Just 10.9km long, the stage begins with 3km of flat before heading straight into the steep slopes of Peyragudes, culminating in a brutal 16.5% ramp to the summit runway. It’s the first uphill-only TT at the Tour since 2004 and is likely to create the kind of GC shake-up that only this kind of format can deliver.
The margins may not be as wide as in historic editions, but with the yellow jersey contenders running out of chances, every second gained or lost could define the final standings in Paris. For some, it’s the ultimate test of power pacing. For others, it’s a chance to claw back time without the tactics of a road stage interfering.
The route – short, steep and decisive at Peyragudes
The stage begins in Loudenvielle, rolling gently for 3km before the timing check at Escadaoux marks the end of the warm-up. From there, the road climbs steadily at nearly 8% through Loudervielle and toward the heart of the Peyragudes ski resort.
The final kilometre is the most difficult: a punishing ramp to the altiport averaging 13%, peaking at over 16% on the exposed upper slopes. The finish line is perched on the same dramatic airstrip featured in the opening scene of Tomorrow Never Dies, and drama is what this stage is expected to deliver.
This climb last featured in 2022 as a summit finish, when Tadej Pogačar outsprinted Jonas Vingegaard. But with no wheels to follow and no draft to hide in, the dynamics are different this time. There will be time gaps, and riders will need to measure their effort precisely.
What’s on offer
Date: Friday, 18th July
Distance: 10.9km
Start/Finish: Loudenvielle – Peyragudes
Time checks:
- Escadaoux (km 4)
- Loudervielle (km 7.6)
Climbs:
- Col de Peyragudes (cat. 1, km 11)
Prediction
Tadej Pogačar has already taken control of the Tour and showed no signs of weakness on Stage 12 to the Hautacam. With his explosiveness and ability to measure his effort, he’s the top pick for this kind of effort. Jonas Vingegaard may come close, but we think Pogačar will win his fourth stage of the race and tighten his grip on yellow.
