Originally, the route would have been a carbon copy of last year’s final stage, when Nairo Quintana soloed to victory ahead of Tiesj Benoot and Thibaut Pinot. The start of the 166.5 kilometres was scheduled to be in Nice, but the city is in a strict lockdown an the new start is in Le Broc, 20 kilometres north of Nice.
Right after the start the riders tackle the Côte de Gilette, a 6.6 kilometres climb at 4.9%. The route continues west to enter the Col de la Sigale after almost 30 kilometres. Also 6.6 kilometres long, but slightly steeper: 5,5%. A short flat section leads onto the 6.2 kilometres long Côte de Saint-Antonin. This one slopes at 5.3%.
A long descent and a predominantly flat phase of 40 kilometres are the gate way to the finish climb. The haul up t La Colmiane is 16.3 kilometres long and the average gradient sits at 6.3%. So it is a big test, but also a gradual one. In 2018, Simon Yates attacked with 4 kilometres to go and Ion Izagirre jumped to his wheel. But when Yates accelerated again he was alone.
Last year, Nairo Quintana also attacked with 4 kilometres out. He overhauled the only remaining breakaway rider, Thomas De Gendt, to solo to victory. Maximilian Schachmann fought a brave battle in the background, hanging onto his overall lead despite losing almost a minute.
The first thee riders on the line gain time bonuses of 10, 6 and 4 seconds, while two intermediate sprints – at kilometre 88.7 and 113.1 (so close to the finish) – come with 3, 2 and 1 seconds.
Another interesting read: results 7th stage Paris-Nice 2021.
Paris-Nice 2021 stage 7: route, profiles, more
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