The 2025 edition of the Tour de France is set to be an exclusively French affair, marking the first time since 2020 that the race will remain entirely within the borders of France. This highly anticipated event will traverse 11 regions and 34 departments, showcasing the diverse and stunning landscapes of France. Cyclists and fans alike can look forward to a challenging and scenic route that promises thrilling competition.
The race will consist of a demanding 21 stages, meticulously designed to test the riders’ endurance and skill across various terrains. The breakdown includes 7 flat stages suited for sprinters, 6 hilly stages that will challenge all-rounder cyclists, and 6 formidable mountain stages. Among these mountain stages, there are five summit finishes at iconic locations: Hautacam, Luchon-Superbagnères, Mont Ventoux, Courchevel Col de la Loze, and La Plagne Tarentaise. Adding another layer of complexity, the 2025 Tour will feature 2 individual time trials, demanding peak performance against the clock. Riders will have two well-deserved rest days to recover and prepare for the grueling challenges ahead.
Adding fresh excitement to the route, the 2025 Tour de France introduces 8 new stage towns or locations to the Tour’s rich history. These debut locations include Lauwin-Planque (stage 2 start), Bayeux (stage 6 start), Chinon (stage 9 start), Ennezat (stage 10 start), Le Mont-Dore Puy de Sancy (stage 10 finish), Bollène (stage 17 start), Vif (stage 18 start), and Mantes-la-Ville (stage 21 start). The inclusion of these new towns ensures that the Tour continues to explore and celebrate the breadth of France.
The mountainous terrain will be a defining feature of the 2025 Tour, with climbs and summits across the Massif Central, Pyrenees, Alps, and Jura mountain ranges. A standout challenge will be the Col de la Loze, reaching an altitude of 2,304 meters, making it the highest point of this year’s race. In a notable first, the Col de la Loze will be ascended via its eastern flank from Courchevel, adding a new dimension to this already legendary climb. Cycling history enthusiasts will also appreciate the return of a classic stage; the Pau to Luchon-Superbagnères stage will reappear after 39 years, last seen in the 1986 edition, promising a nostalgic nod to past races.
In total, the 2025 Tour de France presents a significant elevation gain of 51,550 meters, underscoring the demanding nature of this edition. The two time trials will provide crucial opportunities for specialists. Stage 5, a 33km course starting and finishing in Caen, is expected to favor powerful riders skilled in solo efforts on relatively flat terrain. In contrast, stage 13 features a shorter but more challenging 11km time trial between and Peyragudes, with varied gradients likely to test climbers and time trialists alike.
Time bonuses will be awarded at the finish of each stage, incentivizing aggressive racing. The first, second, and third riders to cross the finish line will receive 10, 6, and 4 seconds respectively, potentially playing a critical role in the overall general classification.
Finally, the peloton will consist of 176 riders from 22 teams, all vying for glory in this prestigious race. The 2025 Tour de France is set to commence on Saturday, July 5th, promising weeks of thrilling cycling action across the heart of France.
