Stage 3 of Tour de France 2025: A Closer Look at the Route and Profile
Stage 3 of the Tour de France 2025 features crucial climbs and strategic dynamics.
Key Points
- • The stage covers 178.3 kilometers from Valenciennes to Dunkerque.
- • Mont Cassel climb presents a critical point for potential race splits.
- • Mathieu van der Poel expected to support Jasper Philipsen, the previous stage winner.
- • Broadcast live on Eurosport 1 & Max at 1:15 PM and France 3 at 1:55 PM.
The third stage of the 2025 Tour de France is scheduled for July 7, covering a distance of 178.3 kilometers from Valenciennes to Dunkerque. This stage is particularly favorable for sprinters due to its minimal elevation gain, although the Mont Cassel climb poses a strategic challenge just 35 kilometers from the finish line.
The route is largely flat, making it ideal for fast finishes, but the presence of the Mont Cassel climb, which stretches 2.4 kilometers with an average gradient of 4.1%, may allow significant breakaways from the peloton. As teams prepare for the day, early breakaways are anticipated given the lack of early-stage challenges. The climb at Mont Cassel will be a critical juncture, where potential splits in the peloton could occur, especially in the face of expected headwinds.
Current yellow jersey holder Mathieu van der Poel is expected to play a key role, likely supporting teammate Jasper Philipsen, who won the previous stage. This staging not only highlights their team's strategy but also sets the stage for possible tactical plays as the race progresses towards Dunkerque.
For fans, the action will be broadcast live on Eurosport 1 & Max beginning at 1:15 PM, while France 3 will start coverage at 1:55 PM. With the race dynamics favoring breaking strategies and potential for dramatic shifts during the Mont Cassel climb, this stage promises to be an enticing spectacle for cycling enthusiasts.