Early start for Jonas Vingegaard’s squad in Paris–Nice TTT

Paris–Nice once again features a team time trial, and like in recent editions the stage will be decided by the individual finishing times of each rider rather than the fourth rider across the line. Back in 2023, ASO introduced the new format into “Race To The Sun,” to mix things up. Fans seem to be enjoying the change, although it means teams need to really dial in their strategy.

The 23.5-km route runs from Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire to Pouilly-sur-Loire and is expected to be mega fast thanks to its mostly flat profile and long, straight sections. Although the course includes some gentle rolling terrain, there are no significant climbs. An intermediate time check is scheduled after 14 km.

TTT prep for the Tour de France

Tuesday’s stage also serves as an early rehearsal for the Tour de France. The 2026 edition will begin with a team time trial in Barcelona later this year. Jonas Vingegaard and his Visma-Lease a Bike were seen practising their starts prior to the start of Paris-Nice, to dial in the squad ahead of the test.

Picnic PostNL will be the first team off the ramp at 9:10 a.m. EDT, while Visma-Lease a Bike starts at 9:34 a.m. EDT. EF Education–EasyPost, led by race leader Luke Lamperti, rolls out last at 10:34 a.m. EDT. Teams depart at four-minute intervals throughout the stage.

Now, for those of you who say, “yeah well time trials are usually boring,” you may want to check out this new format. It essentially becomes a big lead out at the end, with riders burning themselves to help get their leader to the line. It’s actually pretty fun to watch.

Coverage begins on FloBikes.com at 10:10 a.m. EDT. So, you’ll miss a bit of the early racing, but you can track the leaderboard. And if you’re on your way to work, check back with Canadian Cycling Magazine for a report after.

There’s plenty of racing going on, too. Tirreno–Adriatico is also being broadcast on Tuesday. Stage 2 is a lumpyish race from Camaiore to San Gimignano, for a total of 206km. There’s also gravel! It might be a cool duel between Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel. It’s on Flobikes beginning at 8:05 a.m. EDT.

Affiliate links present. Canadian Cycling Magazine may receive commissions