A sudden outbreak of contagious nodular dermatitis affecting cattle in the Col des Saisies area has forced race organizers, in agreement with local authorities, to modify the route of Stage 19 of the Tour (Albertville–La Plagne). The decision comes after the necessary culling of affected animals and the heightened concern for both local farmers and the smooth running of the race. As a result, the climb to the Col des Saisies will be entirely avoided, a change that significantly reshapes the dynamics of the stage.
The ceremonial start remains as planned at the exit of Albertville. After a 7 km parade through the city, the peloton will head toward the D925, where the official start will be given. The altered route will rejoin the original course shortly before Beaufort, at kilometer 52.4 of the initial schedule. With this adjustment, the total distance of Stage 19 will now be 95 km, reduced from the originally planned 129.9 km.
Another key change concerns timing: the start within the neutral zone will now take place at 2:30 p.m., one hour later than originally scheduled. This later start, combined with the shorter distance, is expected to make the stage faster and potentially less decisive compared to the original, more grueling version.
This modification could have significant implications for the general classification contenders. Jonas Vingegaard, sitting just behind Tadej Pogacar in the standings, had been expected to use the challenging terrain of Stage 19 to launch a decisive attack. The Col des Saisies climb was regarded as one of the few remaining opportunities for him to test Pogacar’s legs and try to gain time before the race heads toward its final stages. With this climb removed, the stage now favors a more controlled pace, reducing the number of selective moments where time gaps can naturally form.
For Pogacar, this change could be seen as advantageous. The Slovenian rider, known for his explosive climbing ability, thrives on shorter, punchier stages but also benefits when the terrain is less demanding and easier to defend. The reduced distance and absence of a major climb could allow UAE Team Emirates to keep a tighter control of the race and neutralize potential threats from rivals like Vingegaard and Primož Roglič.
While the general classification battle might become more subdued, this shorter, altered stage could open the door for aggressive breakaways or opportunistic riders looking for stage glory. Without the grueling climb to Col des Saisies, teams with sprinters or punchy climbers may see this as an unexpected opportunity to contest the win.
The unforeseen change serves as a reminder of how external factors—such as local health and safety concerns—can suddenly reshape the strategy of a major race like the Tour. While Stage 19 will still offer challenges, it is now less likely to provide the dramatic showdown that many fans and riders had anticipated. All eyes will be on Vingegaard to see if he can find another way to put Pogacar under pressure before the race concludes.