The return of a legendary climb. 35 years later, the Tour de France returns to the steep slopes of the Puy de Dôme, the famous volcanic mountain that gives its name to the department. The Auvergne giant has been the scene of many duels in the past, notably the epic one between Jacques Anquetil and Raymond Poulidor in 1964, and marks the finish of the ninth stage. Denmark’s Jonas Vingegaard conceded eight seconds to Slovenian rival Tadej Pogacar but retains the yellow jersey at the end of Stage 9 of the Tour de France on Sunday at the top of the Puy de Dôme. ATWith the winner Michael Woods, who had survived the breakaway, minutes past the finish line, Pogacar attacked 1.5km from goal but failed to gain a meaningful advantage. In the end he gained 8 seconds back and is just 17 seconds behind Vingegaard in the overall standings.

>> This life is over.

Scary last kilometers. The 1,465 meter high Puy de Dôme offers a total of 35 minutes ascent from Clermont-Ferrand (13.3 km with 7.7% average gradient) including the last four brutal kilometers (12%). “It’s very, very steep”commented above Jonas Vingegaard, who got to know the place in early June. “I don’t think I’ve ever climbed such a climb”he had assured.

A new fight awaited. After their mano a mano in the Pyrenees, Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogacar are scrutinized on the slopes of the Auvergne giant. In the overall standings, the Dane is 25 seconds ahead of the Slovenian. But the prestige of such an arrival should encourage attackers. One must also pay attention to the Auvergnat Romain Bardet, who could try something on his land.

Spectators are not allowed on the last four kilometers. The last four kilometers will be closed to spectators for safety and environmental reasons. Gates scattered on the surrounding roads must fend off RVs. A drone system equipped with thermal imaging cameras was planned to detect those attempting to sneak up on the volcano’s flanks. Only 20% of the following vehicles can use the almost four meter wide route, which is bordered by a panoramic cog railway. Only one vehicle per team is allowed and it is not allowed to overtake the blocked drivers.