2023-07-09 16:54:14
The return of a legendary climb. Thirty-five years later, the Tour de France returns to the steep slopes of the Puy de Dôme, the famous volcanic mountain which gives its name to the department. The scene of many duels in the past, in particular the epic one between Jacques Anquetil and Raymond Poulidor in 1964, the giant from Auvergne marks the finish of the ninth stage. Dane Jonas Vingegaard conceded eight seconds to his Slovenian rival Tadej Pogacar but retains the yellow jersey at the end of the 9th stage of the Tour de France on Sunday at the top of Puy de Dôme. While the winner Michael Woods, survivor of the breakaway, had crossed the line for long minutes, Pogacar attacked 1.5 km from the goal but he failed to dig a significant advantage. Regaining 8 seconds in the end, he is only 17 seconds behind Vingegaard in the general classification.
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Fearsome last kilometres. The Puy de Dôme, 1,465 meters high, offers a total of 35 minutes of ascent from Clermont-Ferrand (13.3 km at 7.7% average gradient) including four final brutal kilometers (12%). “It’s very, very steep”commented at the top Jonas Vingegaard, who came to recognize the place in early June. “I don’t think I’ve ever climbed such a climb”he had assured.
A new fight awaited. After their mano a mano in the Pyrenees, Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogacar will be scrutinized on the slopes of the Auvergne giant. In the general classification, the Dane is 25 seconds ahead of the Slovenian. But the prestige of such an arrival should encourage attackers. It will also be necessary to watch for the Auvergnat Romain Bardet, who might try something on his land.
Spectators prohibited in the last four kilometers. The last four kilometer stretch will be closed to spectators for safety and environmental protection reasons. Gates scattered on the surrounding roads must repel motorhomes. A system of drones equipped with thermal cameras was envisaged to spot those who intended to sneak up on the sides of the volcano. Only 20% of following vehicles will be able to use the barely four meter wide track, bordered by a panoramic cogwheel train. Only one car per team will be authorized, and this one cannot overtake the stalled riders.
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