Tour de France 2026 Stage 18 Set for Challenging Mountain Route from Voiron to Orcières-Merlette

The 18th stage of the 2026 Tour de France, taking place on July 23, is poised to be a decisive mountain challenge for the riders. Covering 185.2 kilometers from Voiron to Orcières-Merlette, the stage features multiple categorized climbs that test both endurance and climbing prowess.

Cyclists will begin by tackling the Côte d'Engins at 37 km, a first-category climb stretching 11.4 km with an average 5.4% gradient. Next, the Côte de Monteynard at kilometer 93 offers a second-category ascent of 9.7 km at a 5% gradient. This is followed by the shorter but steeper Côte des Terrasses, a 3.4 km climb averaging 6.6% gradient at kilometer 113.

An intermediate sprint will be contested in the town of Corps at kilometer 129, after which riders face the Côte de St-Léger-les-Mélèzes (third-category) at kilometer 166. The stage's climax is the final ascent to Orcières-Merlette, a first-category climb measuring 7.1 kilometers at a demanding average gradient of 6.7%.

The race is scheduled to start at 12:35 PM with an estimated finish around 5:12 PM, promising a thrilling afternoon of racing. This stage is expected to play a significant role in shaping the overall standings as riders confront one of the toughest mountain courses of the Tour.

Such terrain demands strategic pacing and strong climbing skills, highlighting the scenic yet grueling nature of this stage. Fans and competitors alike are gearing up for what could be a decisive day in this year's Tour de France.