Cyclists gear up for double Alpe d’Huez challenge with 2026 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes routes revealed
The highly anticipated routes for the 2026 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes have been revealed, stirring excitement among cyclists and fans alike. This year’s Tour de France promises to be challenging, featuring back-to-back summit finishes at the iconic Alpe d’Huez. The event will take place from July 4 to July 26, 2026, with a Grand Départ in Barcelona.
2026 Tour de France Highlights
The Tour de France will initiate with a 19km team time trial, a first since 1971, followed by a rolling road stage to Tarragona on stage two. The competition incorporates a mix of terrain, showcasing:
- Seven flat stages
- Four hilly stages
- Eight mountainous stages, with five culminating in summit finishes
Total distance covered will be 3,333km, featuring an elevation gain of 54,450m. Key highlights include:
Challenging Stages
- Stage 19: Starts in Gap and precedes Alpe d’Huez with three minor climbs.
- Stage 20: An extensive ascent featuring four major climbs, including the legendary Col du Galibier.
The route is designed with shorter stage lengths in mind, as 2026 will see only one stage surpassing 200km.
Tour de France Femmes 2026 Route
Following the men’s event, the Tour de France Femmes will be held from August 1 to August 9, 2026. The Grand Départ will take place in Lausanne, Switzerland, marking the second time the women’s race begins outside of France.
Key Features of the Femmes Route
- Early stages include flat segments ideal for sprinters.
- Stage seven features the first inclusion of Mont Ventoux, a significant addition to the women’s race.
- Record 18,795m elevation gain across the course.
From Geneva to Poligny on stage three, the routes will challenge riders with varying elevations. The concluding stages promise thrilling action, with an emphasis on climbing opportunities as the race progresses.
As both tours gear up for an exciting competition, riders’ strategies will play a vital role in navigating the demanding landscapes of the 2026 race. With elite cyclists like Tadej Pogacar eyeing the yellow jersey, anticipation is building for a spectacular showdown on the roads of France and beyond.
