The 2026 Tour de France is upon us, and with it, the promise of thrilling racing and dramatic moments. As the race unfolds, one stage in particular stands out: Stage 9, a challenging and unpredictable day in the saddle. With a demanding route and a host of talented riders, this stage has the potential to shake up the race and create new opportunities for those seeking to make a move. But who will come out on top? Let's take a closer look at what makes this stage so intriguing and how it could impact the overall standings.
A Stage for the Attackers
Stage 9 is a rare opportunity for attackers to strike during the opening week of the Tour. With a route that includes no fewer than 3,300 meters of elevation gain, it's a day designed to test the limits of even the most seasoned riders. The stage begins in Malemort and ends in Ussel, covering 185.5 kilometers of hilly terrain. The first classified climb doesn't arrive until kilometer 77, but the repeated climbing throughout the stage should take its toll on even the strongest riders.
One rider who has been seen at the front less often than usual is Ben Healy of EF Education-EasyPost. Healy is known for his aggressive racing style, and this stage could be the perfect opportunity for him to make a move. Similarly, EF Education-EasyPost could also play the Michael Valgren card, after the Dane joined the breakaway on stage four. Valgren is a rider who is always looking for opportunities to attack, and this stage could be just the right one for him.
The Favorites
When it comes to the favorites, there are several riders who stand out as potential winners. One of the most dangerous contenders is Luke Plapp of Jayco AlUla. While the climbs may be slightly too easy for teammate Ben O'Connor, Plapp is a rider who is always looking for opportunities to attack. Michael Matthews of Jayco AlUla could also produce a major result on this terrain, and Simone Velasco of XDS Astana could be an option for such a demanding day.
Bahrain Victorious may put their faith in Matej Mohorič, and Netcompany INEOS have one of the leading favorites in the fast-finishing Dorian Godon. Godon is a rider who is known for his speed and ability to finish well, and this stage could be the perfect opportunity for him to shine.
The Long Shots
There are also several long shots who could surprise and make a move on this stage. Ion Izagirre of Cofidis is an experienced Basque rider who already knows what it takes to win a Tour de France stage. Jasper Stuyven of Soudal Quick-Step is another rider who should be capable of handling this route, and Uno-X are frequently involved whenever a race becomes aggressive.
The Norwegian team could turn to Anthon Charmig, who won a similar but slightly more demanding stage at the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Julian Alaphilippe of Tudor could also suddenly rediscover his best form, although that may be wishful thinking based on what we have seen recently. Romain Grégoire finds a route that appears tailor-made for his qualities, and Groupama-FDJ United will hope to finally make their presence felt.
The Dark Horse: Lidl-Trek
Perhaps the most dangerous team on paper is Lidl-Trek. With the exceptionally strong-climbing Mads Pedersen, the team brings one of the absolute favorites to the start. Pedersen is a rider who is known for his climbing abilities, and this stage could be the perfect opportunity for him to shine. Quinn Simmons and Mathias Vacek should also be capable of winning on this terrain, and the team has already shown what it could achieve on stage four.
Sports director Steven de Jongh has revealed that the team reconnoitered this stage in detail. Lidl-Trek did the same ahead of stage four, and Pedersen won. This suggests that the team is well-prepared and ready to take advantage of any opportunities that arise.
The Underdogs
Last but not least, there are two pure attackers who could surprise and make a move on this stage. Mathieu van der Poel of Alpecin-Premier Tech may be pushing the limits, but this could be right up his alley. Tom Pidcock of Pinarello-Q36.5 is another rider who could surprise and make a move, but it remains to be seen whether he will focus on the general classification or not.
For the GC contenders, at least, it seems a little too easy—and, above all, too hard to control. If they're given the space and freedom, riders like Tiesj Benoot of Decathlon CMA CGM and Matteo Jorgenson of Visma | Lease a Bike might be able to make a run for it.
Conclusion
Stage 9 of the 2026 Tour de France is a stage that promises to be full of surprises and opportunities. With a challenging route and a host of talented riders, it's a day that could shake up the race and create new opportunities for those seeking to make a move. As the race unfolds, we'll be watching closely to see who comes out on top and who surprises us with their performance. One thing is certain: this stage will be a thrilling spectacle that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
