Exploring the Tour de France Femmes 2024

Tour de France Femmes 2024 in Numbers

The Tour de France Femmes 2024 is set to cover a total distance of 946.3 km, with riders climbing a cumulative elevation of 10,700 m. The race will traverse three countries: the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, and will include four mountain ranges: the Ardennes, Vosges, Jura, and Alps. Riders will face two summit finishes, three sprint finishes, and one time trial.

When is the Tour de France Femmes 2024?

The Tour de France Femmes 2024 will start on August 12, just after the Paris Summer Olympics, with its Grand Depart in Rotterdam. The race will navigate through the Netherlands for the first three days, transition into Belgium, and then move into France on the fourth day. The event will conclude on August 18 with an iconic summit finish atop Alpe d'Huez.

Tour de France Femmes History

Despite only being the third official year of the Tour de France Femmes, women's racing in the Tour dates back to the 1950s. The first women's race in 1955 was a one-off event, and it wasn't until 1984 that the Tour de France Féminin was held alongside the men's race. This race continued until 1989.

Subsequently, other women's stage races like the Grande Boucle Féminine Internationale took place until 2009. In 2014, La Course was introduced, but it was short-lived and replaced by the Tour de France Femmes in 2022. The first edition saw Annemiek van Vleuten of Movistar take the yellow jersey. In 2023, Demi Vollering of SD Worx won the race, while Kasia Niewiadoma of Canyon-SRAM took third place for the second year running.

Who are the Main 2024 Tour de France Femmes Contenders?

This year's race promises fierce competition. Last year's winner, Demi Vollering, is back to defend her title. Her teammate, Lotte Kopecky, who finished second last year and won the green jersey, is also a strong contender. Juliette Labous from Team dsm-firmenich aims to become the first French winner since Bernard Hinault. Marianne Vos of Visma-Lease a Bike, a multiple-time world champion, is expected to compete for the green jersey again.

Other notable contenders include Ashleigh Moolman Pasio (AG Insurance-Soudal-QuickStep), Elisa Balsamo (Lidl-Trek), and Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig (FDJ-SUEZ). Each of these riders brings their unique strengths to the race, making for an exciting competition.

Annemiek van Vleuten, the winner of the first Tour de France Femmes, may also participate, adding further intensity to the race. With such a talented roster, fans can expect a series of close and thrilling stages, with multiple riders vying for the coveted yellow jersey.

The Tour de France Femmes Route

The 2024 route is balanced, offering opportunities for sprinters, climbers, and puncheurs. It covers eight stages, each with distinct challenges.

Stage 1: Rotterdam to La Haye/The Hague, 124 km

This flat route is perfect for sprinters, providing an early opportunity to wear the yellow jersey.

Stage 2: Dordrecht to Rotterdam, 67 km

A double-duty day with a flat 41-mile route followed by a 4-mile time trial. Strong winds may play a role, but it's mainly for the green-jersey contenders.

Stage 3: Rotterdam to Rotterdam, 6.3 km

A short time trial that won't see major changes in standings but could provide small advantages to some riders.

Stage 4: Valkenburg to Liège, 122 km

Entering Belgium, this stage features eight categorised climbs, making it ideal for breakaways and solo escapes.

Stage 5: Bastogne to Amnéville, 150 km

A relatively flat stage with a few short climbs, leading into France. The uphill finish could see puncheurs shine.

Stage 6: Remiremont to Morteau, 160 km

Four climbs over the second half of this stage will likely animate the race, creating opportunities for climbers.

Stage 7: Champagnole to Le Grand-Bornand, 167 km

The first real mountain stage with several significant climbs, setting the stage for the main contenders.

Stage 8: Le Grand-Bornand to Alpe d'Huez, 150 km

The final stage, featuring the iconic climb to Alpe d'Huez. This will be the decisive moment for the yellow jersey.

The route's design ensures that every type of rider has an opportunity to excel, making for a dynamic and unpredictable race. The varied terrain will test the versatility and resilience of the competitors.

Expectations Leading to the Race

With the 2024 Olympics just concluded, many cyclists will be seeking redemption or additional glory. The competition will be intense as riders aim for the yellow jersey. The blend of flat stages, hilly terrains, and mountain climbs ensures that every type of rider has a chance to shine.

Athletes who have experienced setbacks or near-misses at the Olympics will be especially motivated, potentially leading to unexpected results and dramatic stage finishes. The proximity of the Olympics adds a layer of excitement and urgency to the Tour de France Femmes 2024.

Canyon Riders to Watch

Kasia Niewiadoma (Canyon-SRAM) is one to watch, having finished on the podium in the last two editions. Neve Bradbury (Canyon-SRAM), who secured her professional contract through Zwift Academy, is another promising rider and could compete for the white jersey. World time-trial champion Chloe Dygert (Canyon-SRAM) may also be a significant contender.

These riders, sponsored by Canyon, bring a mix of experience, youth, and versatility to the race. Their performances will be closely watched, not only by fans but also by competitors. The advancements in bike technology provided by Canyon could offer them a competitive edge in crucial stages.

Ride with Galera Bet at the Tour de France Femmes 2024

As we gear up for the Tour de France Femmes 2024, we at Galera Bet are excited to see how this event unfolds. With a balanced route and a strong field of contenders, this year's race promises to be thrilling. Stay tuned and place your bets with us to enhance your viewing experience.