Chris Froome wins an ITT between Embrun and Chorges in 2013. The breakaway group approaches Chorges, with Ben Healy of EF Education-EasyPost making a big move. Tim Wellens leads the pack as they head down a descent towards the Côte de Saint-Apollinaire. The gap between the breakaway group and the peloton is around 7min. Louis Meintjes lobs a bidon to a fan as the race continues.
The king of the mountains competition sees Lazkano of Movistar taking KOM points on the Col de Manse. With 36 riders in the break, including Mark Cavendish, the stage is set for an exciting finish. The terrain is rolling mountains, making it a challenging day for the riders. Geraint “G” Thomas speaks about the tough race and staying positive.
The gap between the break and the peloton is 6min as they reach the Col de Manse. With two monster mountain days approaching before the time trial in Nice, the riders are looking forward to a relatively relaxed stage. As the race progresses, predictions for the finish include a time-triallist like Campenaerts or a potential first win for Ben Healy.
Overall, Stage 18 offers a last chance for a breakaway before the overall battle takes center stage. The sprinters who can climb might have an opportunity to shine in this challenging stage. With tough mountain stages ahead, the race is heating up as the riders jockey for position.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com