Get Ready for Paris-Tours: A Gravel-Infused Classic Returns!
As the leaves change and the air crispens, a sense of anticipation builds for cycling fans around the world. Sunday, October 12, marks the return of a beloved staple in the cycling calendar: Paris-Tours! This historic race, first held in 1896, combines the essence of classic cycling with an exciting twist—gravel-infused tracks cutting through the picturesque vineyards of Tours. And with it being late in the season, there’s still plenty to ride for!
A Classic Reinvented
While Paris-Tours may not carry the prestigious WorldTour status, the race has seen a resurgence thanks to its innovative organizers, ASO. Last year’s introduction of gravel segments provided an entirely new flavor, one that resulted in unforgettable moments—like the muddy triumph of Christophe Laporte, who wore his victory as a badge of honor. Unfortunately, Laporte is coming off an injury-riddled season, making his chances of defending his title uncertain.
However, all eyes will be on his teammate, the wildly talented Matthew Brennan, who has quickly made a name for himself as a rising star. The pre-race favorites include Jasper Philipsen of Alpecin-Deceuninck, whose sprinting prowess could make him a formidable contender. And let’s not forget about former winner Arnaud Démare, who will be hanging up his wheels after this race—a bittersweet farewell for fans who have cherished his journey through the sport.
How to Watch—And Where
The excitement doesn’t stop there! Fans from around the globe can catch all the race action thanks to various broadcasting options. For our Australian friends, the race will be available for free on SBS On Demand. Viewers across Europe can tune in via public broadcasters—France 3 in the host country and numerous streaming platforms like Sporza in Belgium, RTVE Play in Spain, RAI Play in Italy, and NOS in the Netherlands.
In the UK, TNT Sports and Discovery+ will provide coverage, while audiences in the USA can enjoy the live stream on Peacock. For Canadian cyclists, FloBikes has you covered. If you find yourself traveling while the race unfolds, a VPN can make all the difference by allowing you to access your usual streaming services from anywhere in the world.
Timing Is Everything
Set your alarms! The race will kick off at 12:10 CET, making it crucial for fans to manage their viewing times based on their local zones. Expect the first riders to crest the finish line around 16:46 CET, the culmination of months of preparation and strategy.
Takeaway: Beyond the Race
As we gear up for this memorable event, it’s worth reflecting on the communal spirit that cycling fosters. Whether you’re a cyclist yourself, an ardent fan, or someone simply looking to enjoy a Sunday of thrills, Paris-Tours reminds us of the passion that drives this sport. So grab your snacks, find a cozy spot, and prepare to witness the glory unfold. Let’s pedal on into a legacy of cycling creation!
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