{"id":1647,"date":"2025-07-22T13:57:38","date_gmt":"2025-07-22T11:57:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/?p=1647"},"modified":"2025-07-22T13:57:41","modified_gmt":"2025-07-22T11:57:41","slug":"stage-17-predictions-key-tactics-to-win","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/stage-17-predictions-key-tactics-to-win\/","title":{"rendered":"Tour de France 2025 Stage 17 Predictions &amp; Key Tactics to Win"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_1fcc90-fe\"><strong>Key Tactics &amp; Team Strategies \u2014 The Chess Match in the Rh\u00f4ne Valley<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While the <em>Tour de France 2025 Stage 17 route<\/em> might look like a flat, predictable day for sprinters on the surface, every seasoned analyst knows these \u201ctransitional\u201d days can crack open the GC standings if the wind plays dirty. Here\u2019s how this stage could tactically unfold, and who needs to stay sharp.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_510aa2-a4 .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_510aa2-a4 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_510aa2-a4\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5614fa-3c\"><strong>\ud83d\udea8 Early Breakaway: Classic Move, Measured Risk<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As tradition demands, expect a <strong>small breakaway<\/strong> to bolt off the front within the first 10\u201320 km, most likely just after the official start past Mondragon. Riders from wildcard teams or those chasing KOM points on the day\u2019s two minor bumps will launch clear.<br><br><strong>Why it matters:<br><\/strong>Even though the <em>Stage 17 route profile<\/em> suggests a sprint finish, no team wants to burn matches too early. The break\u2019s job? Soak up media airtime, keep sponsors happy, and force sprinters\u2019 squads to manage the gap.<br><br><strong>Breakaway Prediction:<\/strong> 3\u20135 riders, neutralized by 30 km to go.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_b6165a-8a .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_b6165a-8a .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_b6165a-8a\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_e0687b-4c\"><strong>\ud83d\udca8 Mistral Watch: The Invisible Race Boss<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>Mistral wind<\/strong> in the Rh\u00f4ne Valley can turn this stage from routine to ruthless. Particularly between km 30\u2013100 (around Uchaux, Mornas, Roquemaure, and Orange), this powerful cross-tailwind can rip the peloton into <strong>echelons<\/strong> \u2014 diagonal formations where positioning is survival.<br><br><strong>GC squads like Visma-Lease a Bike, <a href=\"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/tour-de-france-teams-2025\/uae-team-emirates-xrg\/\">UAE Team Emirates<\/a>, and INEOS Grenadiers<\/strong> will hover near the front with sprinters\u2019 lead-out trains. A single lapse in focus or a mechanical in the wrong spot could cost a favorite 1\u20132 minutes in a heartbeat.<br><br><strong>Tactical Note:<br><\/strong>If Quick-Step or Alpecin-Deceuninck smell opportunity, expect them to <strong>light up the race around km 40\u201380<\/strong> when the roads get exposed and the peloton stretches.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_32ad0e-ae\"><strong>\ud83d\udeb4\u200d\u2642\ufe0f Sprinters\u2019 Teams: Controlling the Chaos<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Teams built around top finishers like <strong>Jasper Philipsen, Fabio Jakobsen, and Arnaud D\u00e9mare<\/strong> will play the long game. Their strategy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Keep the break in check<\/strong> at 1\u20132 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong>Guard their sprinters<\/strong> from the wind using lead-out lieutenants<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Control the pace after Crest and Loriol-sur-Dr\u00f4me<\/strong> (km 120\u2013140) to avoid last-minute chaos<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Expect the likes of <strong>Michael M\u00f8rk\u00f8v, Danny van Poppel, and Jonas Rickaert<\/strong> to show themselves as road captains here.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_4a1508-f0 .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_4a1508-f0 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_4a1508-f0\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_02ab5f-4e\"><strong>\ud83c\udfc1 Lead-Out Trains: Setting the Table in Valence<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The final 20 km into Valence is practically designed for a <strong>textbook high-speed sprint<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wide boulevards<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong>Long straights<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Smooth tarmac<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The critical zone starts around <strong>km 140<\/strong> as the race hits urban roads. The peloton will ramp to near 70 km\/h in the last 5 km.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_215173-8c, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_215173-8c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_215173-8c\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_215173-8c mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_215173-8c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_215173-8c\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_215173-8c img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_215173-8c[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_215173-8c\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h4 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_215173-8c wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_215173-8c\"><strong>Key Tactics:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Trains form at 5 km to <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong>Fastest wheels (Wellense, Jakobsen, Bennett) glued to their lead-out men<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A decisive drag race<\/strong> in the final 2 km on Avenue de Romans<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Race Analyst Insight:<br><\/strong>If the Mistral has blown itself out by then, we\u2019ll see a pure power sprint. If crosswinds linger, the front group might only be 50\u201360 riders deep.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b10d99-88\"><strong>\ud83c\udf99\ufe0f Final Strategic Verdict<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <em>Tour de France 2025 Stage 17 route<\/em> isn\u2019t just a rest day for the GC guys or a routine dash for the sprinters. It\u2019s a high-speed, high-risk tactical affair where:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wind dictates tactics<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong>Teams must ride as one<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A single mistake punishes brutally<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Expect a chess match on wheels, where lead-out trains double as wind buffers, GC contenders race on instinct, and the Mistral remains the wild card.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_b93e05-8f .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_b93e05-8f .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_b93e05-8f\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_0197b8-95\"><strong>Who Benefits on Stage 17? Sprinters, Rouleurs &amp; Echelon Masters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alright, folks \u2014 let\u2019s talk about the real <strong>stage 17 favorites<\/strong>. While this stage screams \u201csprinter\u2019s paradise\u201d on paper, we know the <strong>Tour de France 2025 stage 17 route<\/strong> has tricks up its sleeve. <br>Crosswinds, tactical traps, and lead-out chaos could shuffle the deck. So \u2014 who\u2019s got the best shot in this Rh\u00f4ne Valley showdown on <strong>Wednesday, July 23rd<\/strong>?<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_615af8-f2\"><strong>\ud83e\udd47 Top Sprinter Contenders<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Valence finish is made for pure power merchants. Long, wide roads. High speeds. No sharp turns in the final kilometer. It\u2019s a textbook drag race, and here\u2019s who\u2019ll be gunning for it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Jasper Philipsen (Alpecin-Deceuninck) <\/strong>(We are sorry he is out now)<br> \ud83e\udd4a <em>Why?<\/em> The fastest finisher of the past two Tours. His <strong>stage 17 route profile<\/strong> suits his raw speed and positioning skills. A full, committed lead-out train at his disposal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong>Fabio Jakobsen (DSM-Firmenich PostNL)<br><\/strong> \ud83e\udd4a <em>Why?<\/em> Hungry after a tough start to the Tour. Loves a flat, straight finish and will risk it all to reclaim sprint king status.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Arnaud D\u00e9mare (Arkea-B&amp;B Hotels)<br><\/strong> \ud83e\udd4a <em>Why?<\/em> Flying on French roads, and Valence suits his sprint style: straight-line speed, no technical turns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong>Sam Bennett (Decathlon-AG2R La Mondiale)<\/strong><br>\ud83e\udd4a <em>Why?<\/em> The wildcard. If the echelons split and he survives, he\u2019s deadly over the final 200 meters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_5c6218-32\"><strong>\ud83d\udeb4\u200d\u2642\ufe0f Rouleurs &amp; Lead-Out Kings<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the engine room guys who\u2019ll shape the sprint or tear the race apart in the wind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong>Michael M\u00f8rk\u00f8v (Astana Qazaqstan)<\/strong> \u2014 Sprint whisperer. Can guide his sprinter through any crosswind carnage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Danny van Poppel (BORA-hansgrohe)<\/strong> \u2014 Top-tier lead-out, a master at delivering speedsters to the front.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_ce40d6-0c .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_ce40d6-0c .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_ce40d6-0c\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_a3ed3f-32\"><strong>\ud83e\udded GC Teams &amp; Echelon Specialists<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The GC boys can\u2019t relax<\/strong> \u2014 not for a second. If the <strong>Mistral wind stirs up<\/strong>, this flat stage could decide podium spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/tour-de-france-teams-2025\/team-visma-lease-a-bike\/\">Visma | Lease a Bike<\/a> (Vingegaard)<\/strong> \u2014 Echelon experts, drilled to perfection in crosswinds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/tour-de-france-teams-2025\/uae-team-emirates-xrg\/\">UAE Team Emirates<\/a> (Poga\u010dar)<\/strong> \u2014 Will ride offensively if the opportunity arises.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>INEOS Grenadiers<\/strong> \u2014 Classic echelon operators, always prepared to rip the race open.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Teams like Quick-Step and Lotto-Dstny<\/strong> have a crosswind playbook longer than War and Peace. If they sense an opportunity around km 30\u201370, expect fireworks.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_868e1e-2a .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_868e1e-2a .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_868e1e-2a\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b9e366-66\"><strong>\ud83d\udd0d Summary: Who Should You Watch on Stage 17?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);}.kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);max-width:850px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id1647_10d15e-5f alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column1647_cefbe0-94\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-table-container1647_c0878e-c8{font-size:15px;overflow-x:auto;}.kb-table-container .kb-table1647_c0878e-c8 th{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);text-align:center;}.kb-table-container .kb-table1647_c0878e-c8 caption{text-align:center;}.kb-table-container .kb-table1647_c0878e-c8 td{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);text-align:center;}.kb-table-container .kb-table1647_c0878e-c8 tr{border-bottom:1px solid rgba(113,128,150,0.57);}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-table-container .kb-table1647_c0878e-c8 tr{border-bottom:1px solid rgba(113,128,150,0.57);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-table-container .kb-table1647_c0878e-c8 tr{border-bottom:1px solid rgba(113,128,150,0.57);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-table-container kb-table-container1647_c0878e-c8 wp-block-kadence-table\"><table class=\"kb-table kb-table1647_c0878e-c8\">\n<style>.kb-table-container .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_600689-cc{height:55px;}<\/style><tr class=\"kb-table-row kb-table-row1647_600689-cc\">\n<th  scope=\"col\" class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_4af13e-26\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Type<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/th>\n\n<th  scope=\"col\" class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_ca907e-31\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Names<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/th>\n\n<th  scope=\"col\" class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_fc57be-36\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why They Matter<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n\n<style>.kb-table-container .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_f15909-9c{height:50px;}.kb-table-container  .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_f15909-9c:hover{background-color:#fcfcfc;}<\/style><tr class=\"kb-table-row kb-table-row1647_f15909-9c\">\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_7bb7fc-ad\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83e\udd47 Sprinters<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_4593d5-1b\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">Jakobsen, D\u00e9mare, Bennett<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_ef0fce-3b\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">Perfect finale for a pure power sprint finish<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<style>.kb-table-container .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_be0d69-39{height:50px;}.kb-table-container  .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_be0d69-39:hover{background-color:#fcfcfc;}<\/style><tr class=\"kb-table-row kb-table-row1647_be0d69-39\">\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_11cbc0-1c\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udeb4\u200d\u2642\ufe0f Lead-out Kings<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_4a058d-00\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">M\u00f8rk\u00f8v, van Poppel<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_0b5ea1-4f\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">Will shape the last 2 km and decide who actually contests it<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<style>.kb-table-container .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_10b67e-da{height:50px;}.kb-table-container  .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_10b67e-da:hover{background-color:#fcfcfc;}<\/style><tr class=\"kb-table-row kb-table-row1647_10b67e-da\">\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_9e429b-99\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83e\udded GC Teams<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_3fe610-8c\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">Visma, UAE, INEOS<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_3ffbe3-19\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">Must stay sharp if crosswinds cause havoc<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<style>.kb-table-container .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_39094f-0c{height:50px;}.kb-table-container  .kb-table tr.kb-table-row1647_39094f-0c:hover{background-color:#fcfcfc;}<\/style><tr class=\"kb-table-row kb-table-row1647_39094f-0c\">\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_2b4fbb-77\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83c\udf2c\ufe0f Echelon Masters<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_cbb233-6b\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">Quick-Step, Lotto-Dstny<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n\n<td  class=\"kb-table-data kb-table-data1647_8afb4b-83\">\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">Could trigger splits if Mistral winds up<\/p>\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Stage 17 favorite?<\/strong> If it\u2019s calm \u2014 Wellense or Merlier. If crosswinds? Total chaos.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_def3e4-15 .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_def3e4-15 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_def3e4-15\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_b262aa-3d\"><strong>\ud83d\udd2e Predictions &amp; Fan Polls: Who Wins the Sprint Royale in Valence? <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As we head into <strong>Tour de France 2025 Stage 17\u2019s route finale<\/strong>, one thing\u2019s clear: this is a <strong>pure sprinters\u2019 showdown<\/strong>&#8230; unless the Mistral decides to gatecrash the party. Either way, expect a final kilometer as explosive as a late-night transfer market rumor. Here\u2019s how the likely contenders stack up:<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_8ee585-6f\"><strong>\ud83d\udccc Top 3 Stage 17 Favorites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h4 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_75b6eb-96\"><strong>\ud83e\udd47 Jasper Philipsen (Alpecin-Deceuninck)<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">(This buddy is already out of the tour)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udd25 <em>Why?<\/em> Arguably the fastest man on two wheels right now, with the best lead-out train in the business. Loves a long, straight finish like Valence\u2019s D532. If he\u2019s in position \u2014 it\u2019s game over.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h4 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_dd7575-67\"><strong>\ud83e\udd48 Fabio Jakobsen (DSM-Firmenich PostNL)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udd25 <em>Why?<\/em> Hungry for a statement win after a string of close calls in this year\u2019s Tour. If Jakobsen gets clean air and no interference, he\u2019s one of the few capable of out-dragging Philipsen.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h4 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ba3e25-5f\"><strong>\ud83e\udd49 Sam Bennett (Decathlon-AG2R La Mondiale)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;\ud83d\udd25 <em>Why?<\/em> The wildcard. Has had an up-and-down season, but when he\u2019s on, his top-end speed is lethal. This kind of classic, uncomplicated finale suits his style.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_71d871-43 .kt-block-spacer{height:20px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-1647_71d871-43 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-1647_71d871-43\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\"\/><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ad56dd-ee\"><strong>&nbsp;\ud83c\udfaf Dark Horse Pick<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h4 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_2ea0b5-e4\"><strong>Arnaud D\u00e9mare (Ark\u00e9a-B&amp;B Hotels)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udd25 <em>Why?<\/em> A Frenchman winning in Valence? The script writes itself. Not as consistent as Philipsen, but he knows how to pick his moments on home soil.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_df1148-63, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_df1148-63[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_df1148-63\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_df1148-63 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_df1148-63[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_df1148-63\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_df1148-63 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_df1148-63[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_df1148-63\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_df1148-63 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_df1148-63\"><strong>\ud83d\udcca Fan Poll \u2014 Your Turn!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Who\u2019s your pick for Stage 17\u2019s sprint royale?<br><\/strong>Vote now \u2014 and let&#8217;s see if the fans can out-predict the pros:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udccc Tim Wellense<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\ud83d\udccc Fabio Jakobsen<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\ud83d\udccc Sam Bennett<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\ud83d\udccc Arnaud D\u00e9mare<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udccc Other (drop your wildcard in the comments!)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">[<strong>\ud83d\udca5 Vote in our Instagram story &amp; Twitter poll now! #TDF2025Stage17<\/strong>]<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98\"]{padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h3 class=\"kt-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading1647_ec04c6-98\"><strong>\ud83d\udcdd Quick Analysis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>If the Mistral blows:<\/strong> Look for a reduced bunch sprint or even a breakaway survivor. Philipsen and Jakobsen both need their full lead-outs intact to hit top speed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>GC Riders:<\/strong> Watch for <a href=\"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/tour-de-france-teams-2025\/uae-team-emirates-xrg\/\">UAE<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/tour-de-france-teams-2025\/team-visma-lease-a-bike\/\">Visma<\/a>, and Ineos protecting their leaders in the final 20 km \u2014 one inattentive moment in a split and it\u2019s disaster<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\ud83d\udea8 <\/strong>Pro Tip: Keep an eye on breakaway artist Fred Wright or Mads Pedersen if echelons break the bunch. Both have the speed and grit to win a small group dash.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Key Tactics &amp; Team Strategies \u2014 The Chess Match in the Rh\u00f4ne Valley While the Tour de France 2025 Stage 17 route might look like a flat, predictable day for sprinters on the surface, every seasoned analyst knows these \u201ctransitional\u201d days can crack open the GC standings if the wind plays dirty. Here\u2019s how this&#8230;<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4793,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"above","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[32],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1647","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tour-de-france-2025"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":32,"label":"Tour de France 2025"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/franceletour.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/18648.jpg",1000,667,false],"author_info":{"display_name":"Gautier Durfort","author_link":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/author\/gautier-durfort\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":32,"name":"Tour de France 2025","slug":"tour-de-france-2025","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":32,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Full battle coverage of the Tour de France 2025, Stage guides, live results &amp; route maps. Track every climb, sprint, and yellow jersey battle.","parent":0,"count":76,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":32,"category_count":76,"category_description":"Full battle coverage of the Tour de France 2025, Stage guides, live results &amp; route maps. Track every climb, sprint, and yellow jersey battle.","cat_name":"Tour de France 2025","category_nicename":"tour-de-france-2025","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1647","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1647"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1647\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4791,"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1647\/revisions\/4791"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4793"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1647"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1647"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/franceletour.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1647"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}