Grand Départ in Barcelona: Pogačar the big favourite – Paul Seixas, 19, makes his Tour debut

Barcelona – 01.07.2026: On July 4, Barcelona will host the start of the 113th Tour de France with a 19-kilometer team time trial, which is expected to create the first gaps in the general classification. The organizers send the peloton around an urban circuit, with landmarks such as Montjuïc shaping the backdrop of this opening phase. The first days of the Tour will therefore be technically and tactically demanding, especially as wind, speed management, and good cornering will play a major role.

From a sporting perspective, all eyes are on Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates-XRG), who arrives as the man of the moment after a dominant spring season. His team is considered tightly cohesive, and the Slovenian’s time-trial abilities could earn him the Yellow Jersey early on. Competition will come from traditionally fast time-trial teams such as Visma–Lease a Bike, while other general classification contenders are focused on avoiding time losses in the opening stages.

Particular attention in France is focused on Paul Seixas, who, at 19, is riding his first Tour for Decathlon CMA CGM. The young Frenchman has shown himself to be resilient and instinctive in demanding one-day races. He is not yet considered a candidate for the very top positions in the general classification, but his profile promises attacking performances on rolling terrain and the ability to support team leaders. For his team, the early team time trial offers an opportunity to organize the lineup and clarify roles.

The route offers fast tests: as early as July 6, the third stage heads into the Pyrenees with a finish in Les Angles—a first endurance test for climbers and team leaders that could clarify the hierarchy among the favorites. With the Yellow Jersey needing to be defended so early in the mountains, tactical reserves and the quality of teammates are more important than ever. Anyone who loses time at the start will find themselves under pressure even before reaching the first high mountain passes.

Organizationally and atmospherically, the start in Catalonia promises large crowds and a high pace. Teams with a balanced mix of time trialists and climbers have the advantage in controlling both the time trial and the transition stages. Paris is scheduled for July 26; however, the foundations of the general classification will likely be laid in the first ten days—whether through an early statement by Pogačar or challengers using the Pyrenees to alter the balance of power.