INTERVIEW Jake Stewart | “I think it’s gonna be chaos” – Israel – Premier Tech star anticipates dramatic start to the Tour de France

Ahead of Stage 1 of the 2025 Tour de France, Jake Stewart spoke with CyclingUpToDate about his form, team plans, and what to expect in the sprint finale. The 25-year-old from Israel – Premier Tech is returning for his second Tour appearance after first lining up on the start line last year.

“I imagine, yeah, there's a fair few fans made the short journey across the channel,” Stewart said. “A lot of my family and close friends have made the journey as well... it's always nice to be a bit closer.”

While Stewart confirmed that Pascal Ackermann would be the team’s focus for the sprint, he emphasized that motivation stays high throughout the race. “Our motivation is always high at the Tour de France... no matter how deep you are into the Tour, you wake up every day motivated for the stage.”

Stewart also confirmed that several riders, including himself, would be using the team’s new prototype bikes. Asked about the sprint finish, he didn’t hold back about what to expect. “200 metres to go... I think it’s gonna be chaos. It’s a long boulevard sprint, 1.4 km from the last corner, so more than anything, it’s about timing and getting that right.”