The Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes 2026 is shaping up to be a thrilling cycling event, offering a challenging 120-kilometer route with a staggering 4000 meters of climbing. This race, previously known as the Criterium du Dauphiné, is a prestigious World Tour event and a crucial preparation for the iconic Tour de France. With a rich history featuring legendary cyclists like Jacques Anquetil, Raymond Poulidor, and Lance Armstrong, the Dauphiné has maintained its prestige, attracting top riders like Chris Froome and Tadej Pogacar in recent years.
The 2026 edition promises to be particularly grueling, with the opening stage setting the tone for the race. A short but explosive 146-kilometer stage with 3200 meters of climbing could be decisive, featuring several steep ascents and a 2.4-kilometer climb averaging over 10% with 52 kilometers to go. The stage's chaotic start and multiple climbs throughout will test the riders' endurance and tactical prowess.
Stage 2 takes the race deep into the Massif Central, offering a 233-kilometer challenge with 3700 meters of climbing. The stage's difficulty lies in its early, steep ascent and subsequent rolling terrain, making it hard to control. A 21-kilometer climb averaging 4% with a KOM sprint halfway through adds further complexity, potentially leading to a strong breakaway. The stage's finale, a flat but technical descent into Le Puy-en-Velay, will test the riders' ability to manage attacks.
The team time trial on stage 3 provides a strategic opportunity, with a challenging 28-kilometer course featuring 400 meters of climbing. Pacing is crucial, as teams decide between aggressive climbs and potential downhill risks or a more conservative approach. The stage's finale, an 800-meter stretch averaging 6%, will isolate the riders, making it a high-stakes battle.
Stage 4 offers a mix of climbing and flat terrain, with a 167-kilometer route. The first two-thirds of the stage are particularly demanding, featuring five categorized climbs, including a 7.8-kilometer ascent at 5.5%. The stage's finale in Montrond-les-Bains provides a potential sprint opportunity, but the challenging terrain may favor a more controlled race.
Stage 5 presents another sprint stage, with a 196-kilometer route from Saint-Chamond to Villars-les-Dombes. The stage starts with two categorized climbs within 7 kilometers, followed by a 90-kilometer stretch with minimal flat terrain. The second half offers a simpler finale, making it a strategic stage for teams to control.
Stage 6 features a hilly finale, with a 182-kilometer route from Saint-Vulbas to Crest-Voland. The stage's early 'warm-up' climb and subsequent valley descent lead to a technical, steep ascent to Crest-Voland. The 5.9-kilometer climb at 7.4% will test the riders' explosiveness, providing an opportunity for GC battles.
The final weekend showcases two queen stages, starting with a 134-kilometer route from Le Bridoire to Grand Colombier. The stage features seven climbs, including a brutal 8.5-kilometer ascent at 10% with a challenging first half averaging 12%. The following day's stage 8, a 120-kilometer challenge, is the actual queen stage with an astonishing 4000 meters of climbing in just 120 kilometers. The stage's brutal climbs from the start, including the Col du Pré and Montée de Bisanne, will test the riders' endurance, leading to a summit finish at Plateau de Solaison.
In summary, the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes 2026 promises an exhilarating cycling spectacle, offering a diverse range of stages that will challenge the riders' climbing, tactical, and endurance abilities. From explosive starts to technical finales, this race will showcase the very best of cycling, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.
