Crushing the Alps: White Jersey Winning Strategies for Mountain Stages
You’re under 25. You’ve got legs full of ambition, lungs like bellows, and a shot at one of cycling’s biggest breakouts. But how do you actually win the White Jersey?
Let’s break down the blueprint.
White Jersey Strategies
White Jersey strategies requires a combination of endurance, consistency, and smart tactics. Winning it, is no easy feat. Here’s what it takes:
- Strong Climbing Skills – The Tour de France is won in the mountains, and the White Jersey strategies is no different. A strong climber has the best chance.
- Time Trial Strength – Many young riders struggle in time trials, so improving this discipline can be a game-changer.
- Team Support – A well-structured team can make a huge difference, helping their young rider avoid unnecessary energy expenditure.
- Avoiding Crashes – Young riders often take risks, but staying safe is key to a consistent performance.
- Energy Conservation – Smart pacing and knowing when to attack or hold back is crucial in a three-week race.
These are the basics you need to ride Tour de Frace — but the real game is won in those razor-edge moments mid-race. In this guide, we’ll uncover the pro moves, mountain tactics, rival mind games, plus real case studies and inspiring past victories.
Let’s start hunting for the white!
🧩 1. Be a GC Contender or Ride with One
Most White Jersey winners are already gunning for Yellow. If not? They’re shadowing a teammate who is.
Rider | Year | White Finish | Yellow Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
Tadej Pogačar | 2020 | 🥇 1st | 🥇 1st |
Egan Bernal | 2019 | 🥇 1st | 🥇 1st |
Andy Schleck | 2010 | 🥇 1st | 🥈 2nd |
💡 Strategy: Ride for GC. White comes naturally when you’re hanging with the elite.
🧗 2. Survive the Mountains
Climbers dominate the White Jersey — sprinters don’t stand a chance. Surviving the Alps and Pyrenees is non-negotiable.
Stage Type | Key Skill Needed | White Jersey Impact |
|---|---|---|
High-Mountain | Climbing & endurance | 🧨 Make or break |
Time Trial | TT efficiency | 🚴♂️ Holds gaps |
Flat Sprint Days | Peloton positioning | 😴 Stay safe, recover |
🎒 You’re not here to win sprints — just don’t crash. Save those legs.
🕵️♂️ 3. Know Your Rivals
Even if you’re not targeting Yellow, know who’s in your White-age bracket.
Notable U25s for 2025 | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
Juan Ayuso | TT & climbing mix | Lacks aggression |
Cian Uijtdebroeks | Steady climber | Needs team support |
Romain Grégoire | Punchy finisher | Unproven in 3-week GC |
Thymen Arensman | All-rounder | Risk of domestique duty |
🧠 Tip: It’s a long Tour. Know when to attack and when to defend.
🧱 4. Build a Team Around Your Progress
Younger GC hopefuls thrive with solid domestiques. No one wins the White alone.
Domestique Role | Example Duties |
|---|---|
Climbing Support | Pacing on long ascents |
Flat Day Bodyguard | Keep leader safe from wind/crashes |
Bottle Service 🚰 | Literally — hydration matters! |
📚 5. Case Study: Tadej Pogačar (2020)
Let’s dissect the ultimate White Jersey heist — which turned into total Tour domination.
Element | How Pog Used It |
|---|---|
Time Trials | Crushed the final TT (Stage 20) |
Mountains | Hung with the best, attacked late |
Consistency | Never cracked — always present |
Mental Edge | Took risks when others hesitated |
🎬 That final time trial? Legend status unlocked.
✅ Final Checklist to Target White
🔍 Requirement | ✅ Must-Have |
|---|---|
Age under 25 on Jan 1 | ✅ |
GC-level endurance | ✅ |
Strong mountain legs | ✅ |
Reliable team support | ✅ |
Mental focus for 3 weeks | ✅ |
⛰️ Famous Climbs That Define the White Jersey Strategies
To win the White Jersey, it’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving on the climbs that test both your physical and mental limits. In 2025, these are the climbs where the battle for the White will be won — or lost.
1. Col du Tourmalet (High Mountains)
One of the most iconic climbs in the Tour, Tourmalet isn’t just about the grade; it’s about surviving. It’s a mountain that has seen countless GC battles, and the young guns who can conquer it will send a loud message about their White Jersey ambitions.
Climb Name | Distance (km) | Average Gradient | Elevation Gain (m) | Key Moment in 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Col du Tourmalet | 19.0 | 7.4% | 1,400 | Final HC ascent, last chance for GC time gaps |
🏔️ Strategy: Riders aiming for the White need to hold steady through the climb, avoiding getting distanced by the more experienced climbers. If they can hang on, they’ll gain confidence for the brutal stages ahead.
2. Alpe d’Huez (The King of Climbs)
Alpe d’Huez is the epitome of a climb where history is made. This is where the youth can prove they’re ready for the big time — even if the older riders try to impose their dominance.
Climb Name | Distance (km) | Average Gradient | Elevation Gain (m) | Key Moment in 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Alpe d’Huez | 13.8 | 8.1% | 1,120 | Final HC ascent, last chance for GC time gaps |
🚴 Strategy: For young riders chasing the White Jersey, this is an opportunity to prove their endurance and tactical nous. They need to climb with patience, not too early in the stage but with enough fire to pick off rivals later.
3. Col du Galibier (The Giant)
Galibier is a brutal test of a rider’s willpower. The climb is long and relentless, often taken at high altitude — where even the most seasoned riders feel the pinch. For younger riders in the White Jersey race, surviving this one is crucial.
Climb Name | Distance (km) | Average Gradient | Elevation Gain (m) | Key Moment in 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Col du Galibier | 18.1 | 6.9% | 1,250 | Early Tour leg with high altitude |
🌬️ Strategy: Tactics here are all about pacing. Young riders must hang with the pack, conserve energy, and push in the final kilometers when others might start cracking.
4. Mont Ventoux (The Giant of Provence)
Mont Ventoux is a climb of legend, notorious for its sheer length and unforgiving conditions. The wind, the heat, and the steep gradients will break anyone who isn’t prepared. For young White Jersey contenders, this is their stage to shine — or crumble.
Climb Name | Distance (km) | Average Gradient | Elevation Gain (m) | Key Moment in 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mont Ventoux | 21.8 | 7.7% | 1,617 | Mid-Tour turning point |
🏜️ Strategy: Tactics on Ventoux are all about stamina. Young riders should aim to stay with the front group, but not blow themselves up too early. It’s a true test of endurance, so keeping a cool head is just as important as physical fitness.
5. Col d’Izoard (The Iconic Test)
Izoard is often a decisive stage. It’s not just about climbing, but also about maintaining your position in the peloton. Riders who can handle the high speeds, aggressive attacks, and steep slopes are often the ones who stay in the fight for the White Jersey.
Climb Name | Distance (km) | Average Gradient | Elevation Gain (m) | Key Moment in 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mont Ventoux | 14.1 | 7.3% | 1,030 | Mid-week stage with critical points for KOM/White Jersey |
🌄 Strategy: Riders will have to use the early part of the climb to stay close to their rivals and conserve energy. The last stretch, with its sharp switchbacks, will be where gaps are made.
6. Stage Profiles Matter: The Mixed Terrain
While the big climbs steal the spotlight, there are other stages where the GC contenders also need to be alert — and that’s where the mixed terrain stages come in. These stages typically have a combination of smaller climbs and flat sections, which offer surprise results for the White Jersey race.
Stage Type | Terrain Features | Young Rider Impact |
|---|---|---|
Mixed Terrain | Short climbs + flat sections | Riders with all-around ability shine |
Rolling Hills | Punchy climbs & fast descents | Vital to stay in the pack and time attacks |
🏁 Strategy: On mixed terrain stages, young riders need to stay active in the peloton and avoid being dropped. It’s about minimizing time losses and exploiting every opportunity for a time gain.
🧩 Key Takeaways for Winning on Famous Climbs
Factors | Impact on White Jersey Strategy |
|---|---|
Climb Length | Longer climbs = more potential for gaps between the pack. Young riders need to pace themselves, avoiding early blowouts. |
Altitude | High-altitude climbs sap energy. Riders with strong acclimatization will thrive. |
Weather | Wind and rain can make the climbs more treacherous. Riders need to adapt and stay focused. |
Tactics | Timing attacks, recovery after tough climbs, and avoiding fatigue are key to staying in the race for White Jersey. |
🏁 8. Most Iconic White Jersey Strategies & Moments
From unexpected breakthroughs to heart-pounding sprints, these are the moments that make the White Jersey race legendary. It’s not just about speed and power — it’s about the heart, the grit, and the pure drama of youth battling for supremacy.
1. The Rise of Egan Bernal (2019)
Egan Bernal’s 2019 Tour de France victory was historic — but what makes it even more iconic was his clinching of the White Jersey. The Colombian made history by becoming the first South American to win the overall classification, and at just 22 years old, he also snagged the White.
Rider | Year | Age | White Finish | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Egan Bernal | 2019 | 22 | 1st | Clinched the White Jersey and overall victory in a dominant display of climbing skills. |
🚴 Strategy: Bernal’s stunning victory in 2019 was a masterclass in climbing. His solid consistency throughout the race allowed him to stay ahead of rivals in both the GC and the White Jersey competition. His ability to handle all terrain was what set him apart.
2. Tadej Pogačar’s Double Victory (2020)
Tadej Pogačar’s breakout performance in 2020 is still etched in fans’ minds. Not only did he win the Yellow Jersey, but the 21-year-old Slovenian also took home the White Jersey, becoming one of the youngest riders to win the prestigious jersey.
Rider Name | Year | Age at the Start | White Jersey Finish | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Tadej Pogačar | 2020 | 21 | 1st | A memorable performance, where Pogačar shocked the world with his mountain dominance and time-trial skills. |
🌟 Strategy: Pogačar’s combination of power on the climbs and exceptional time trialing made him unbeatable. It was a total package of youth, strategy, and pure talent. His performance in 2020 is one of the most complete in Tour history.
3. Thibaut Pinot’s Heartbreak (2014)
Thibaut Pinot was in the mix for both the overall win and the White Jersey in 2014. Ultimately, he finished 3rd in the overall GC, but his battle and White Jersey strategies was emotional and full of grit. In 2014, Pinot, at just 24, showed that French climbing talent was alive and well.
Rider Name | Year | Age at the Start | White Jersey Finish | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Thibaut Pinot | 2014 | 24 | 1st | Pinot’s relentless climbs in the Alps helped him dominate the White Jersey race. His resilience and fight through adversity became the talk of the Tour. |
💔 Strategy: Pinot showed how youthful passion could fuel an attack on the toughest climbs. Even though he missed out on the Yellow Jersey, his battle for the White Jersey was impressive. He displayed endurance, timing, and a hunger to fight through tough stages.
🔥 He also won the “Most Combative Rider” award that year!
4. Rigoberto Urán’s Consistency (2017)
Rigoberto Urán was one of the standout riders in the 2017 Tour, consistently finishing in the top 10 on mountain stages. His ability to finish strong on difficult climbs without burning out earned him a strong position in both the overall GC and the White Jersey battle.
Rider Name | Year | Age at the Start | White Jersey Finish | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rigoberto Urán | 2017 | 30 | ❌ Not Eligible | Pinot’s relentless climbs in the Alps helped him dominate the White Jersey race. His resilience and fight through adversity became the talk of the Tour. |
⏱️ Strategy: Urán’s ride was a lesson in consistency. By pacing himself well over the course of the Tour, he avoided the pitfalls that took down other young riders, positioning himself as a steady contender for the White Jersey.
5. Enric Mas’ Big Breakthrough (2018)
Enric Mas was a breakout star in 2018, securing 2nd place in the White Jersey competition. The Spaniard’s quiet strength and intelligent riding style set him apart. By keeping a solid position in the peloton and never cracking during the toughest climbs, he became one of the top riders to watch for years to come.
Rider Name | Year | Age at the Start | White Jersey Finish | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Enric Mas | 2018 | 23 | 2nd | Mas showed his skills on the climbs and displayed maturity beyond his years by staying composed on the hardest stages. |
🇪🇸 Strategy: Mas’s consistency and tactical approach made him a rising star. He didn’t have explosive power but used his patience and smart positioning to maintain his standing in the White Jersey race.
📊 Key Takeaways from Iconic White Jersey Moments
Rider | White Jersey Finish | Key Strategy | Iconic Moment |
|---|---|---|---|
🇨🇴 Egan Bernal | 1st | Consistent climbing, great tactical awareness | Historic 2019 victory, young talent shone through |
🇸🇮 Tadej Pogačar | 1st | Complete package of climbing + TT skills | Double victory (Yellow & White) in 2020 |
🇫🇷 Thibaut Pinot | 1st | Relentless attacking style | Emotional ride in 2014, inspiring youth |
🇨🇴 Rigoberto Urán | 2nd | Steady and consistent climbing | Consistency in 2017, strong performance throughout |
🇪🇸 Enric Mas | 2nd | Smart and patient racing | Breakthrough performance in 2018 |
🎯 Strategy Insights for Future White Jersey Contenders
Key Factor | Impact on Strategy |
|---|---|
Climbing Ability | Young riders need to be solid climbers with the ability to recover and fight over multiple stages. |
Tactical Racing | Avoid unnecessary risks; staying in the mix on tough climbs is more important than attacking too early. |
Consistency | It’s not just about one great climb. Riders need to perform consistently across different types of stages. |
Team Support | Young riders benefit from strong team support, especially in managing stage profiles and dealing with rivals. |
In summary, these iconic moments show that the White isn’t just about raw power; it’s about consistency, resilience, and the ability to handle both physical and mental challenges. Young riders who can manage the tough climbs, pace themselves well, and stay consistent will set themselves up for glory in the White Jersey battle.
