The second stage of the 2025
Tour de France has begun with
more disruption, this time from heavy rain and logistical chaos at the start in
Lauwin-Planque. Organisers delayed the neutralized roll-out by 15 minutes, now
scheduled for 12:30 CET, after morning storms and traffic issues created havoc
for riders and teams.
The start area was drenched throughout the morning, soaking
the roads and making conditions precarious even before a pedal was turned.
After the chaos caused by crosswinds on Stage 1, weather is once again the
defining element, this time with slick roads and limited visibility.
Many team buses were caught in traffic trying to reach the
start line, leaving riders scrambling to prepare. The pre-stage presentation
was effectively ruined, as organisers worked to keep the schedule from slipping
further.
With 209 kilometers on tap, Stage 2 is expected to be
another challenging day in the saddle. While the route features less wind
exposure than Stage 1, the combination of distance and wet, narrow roads means
riders will have to fight not just for position, but to stay upright.
Today’s finale favors powerful classics riders who thrive in
these conditions. All eyes will be on riders like Mathieu van der Poel and Wout
van Aert, both capable of handling punchy climbs, tricky descents, providing
they make it through the day unscathed.
But with rain as the dominant factor, mechanicals, crashes,
and time losses remain a real threat for the GC hopefuls. After several
contenders were caught out on the opening day, including Remco Evenepoel and
Primoz Roglic, the peloton is under pressure to stay sharp.