Sign in Subscribe
2025 AD

The Tourmalet: A Brutal Test for the Riders in the 2023 Tour de France

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The iconic Col du Tourmalet is set to be ridden for the 91st time on Saturday, with over 19km of steep incline and average gradient of 7.4% making it one of the most grueling climbs in the Tour de France. The mountain pass has been an integral part of the Tour's story since its first inclusion in 1910, featuring more than any other mountain climb. The western ascent, tackled by this year's peloton, is the more common approach, with riders facing harsh conditions including strong winds and scorching heat.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Tourmalet is a 19km climb with an average gradient of 7.4%, making it one of the most challenging ascents in the Tour de France.
  • The mountain pass has been an integral part of the Tour's story since 1910, featuring more than any other mountain climb.
  • The western ascent, tackled by this year's peloton, is the more common approach, with riders facing harsh conditions including strong winds and scorching heat.
  • Luke Rowe, former Ineos and Team Sky road captain, describes the climb as "b****r" but "an iconic part of the Tour de France".
  • The Tourmalet is just one part of a merciless stage 14, which also features the Col d'Aspin and Col de Peyresourde, all part of the "Circle of Death".
  • Tadej Pogacar may be tempted to write more history on the Tourmalet and win the Souvenir Jacques Goddet, awarded to the first rider over the 2,115m summit.
  • However, Luke Rowe advises caution, suggesting that Pogacar should focus on preserving his lead rather than attacking on a specific climb.

Statistics:

  • The Tourmalet has been ridden 90 times in the Tour de France.
  • The western ascent of the Tourmalet is 19km long with an average gradient of 7.4%.
  • The Col d'Aspin and Col de Peyresourde, both part of the "Circle of Death", are also featured in stage 14.
  • Tadej Pogacar leads the general classification by more than four minutes.
  • The Tourmalet summit finish at Superbagneres has been used only once before, in 2019.

Sources:

  • Byline: Lawrence Ostlere "Vous êtes des criminels!" Octave Lapize is said to have shouted in the general direction of race organisers at the summit of the Col du Tourmalet. (Ref: Various online sources)
  • "The 2018 champion Geraint Thomas alongside his teammate Luke Rowe" (Ref: letour)
  • "Tour de France 2025 -- stage 14 map" (Ref: AP)
  • "Tour de France 2025 -- stage 14 profile" (Ref: letour)
  • Various online sources and news articles.

Read more