What to Expect from Stage 9 of the 2024 Tour de France

 

Stage 9 of the Tour de France 2024 is a unique and challenging stage covering 199 km and 2,000 meters of elevation gain that starts and finishes in Troyes, located in the Aube department of France.

Situated about 140 km southeast of Paris, Troyes has a rich history dating back to the Roman era when it was known as Augustobona Tricassium. It later became the capital of the Champagne region and played a significant role in medieval trade. The city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, particularly its half-timbered houses from the 16th century. The historic center is uniquely shaped like a champagne cork.

This stage will, distinctly, have 14 gravel sectors totaling 32 km of unpaved roads. The day also has four categorized climbs, all of which are Category 4. The first is the Côte de Bergères (1.7 km at an average gradient of 5.2%), followed by the Côte de Baroville (2.8 km at an average gradient of 4.8%), then the Côte de Val Frion (2.2 km at an average gradient of 5%), and finally the Côte de Chacenay (3 km at an average gradient of 4.3%).

The first half of the route contains most of the climbing and half of the gravel sections The hardest part of the route occurs between 95-131 km, featuring four gravel sectors and three hills in quick succession.

On the final stretch, the last unpaved section appears 10 km before the finish line. There will be time bonuses of 10, 6, and 4 seconds awarded to the first three riders across the finish line in Troyes as well. The stage is likely to be exciting and unpredictable due to its combination of hills and gravel roads, which will favor riders with strong bike handling skills and all-around abilities.

It will also be important to look out for possible tire punctures and mechanical issues as a result of the gravel sections. There will likely be some worry in the peloton over these sections, which raise the likelihood of having unexpected bike issues, as well as providing touchier terrain to maneuver. The weather is expected to be good however, with cooler temperatures and clear skies.

These features should make for a great Stage 9 at the 2024 Tour de France, before riders get their first, and well-deserved, rest day on Monday.