Tour de France 2014 Favourites stage 18: Big cols, big winner

The mountain stage from Pau to Hautacam is at 145.5 kilometres not particularly long but should see fireworks. Containing reputable ascents like Col du Tourmalet and the climb to Hautacam, this stage is begging for a big name as the victor. (Slideshow route/profile)

The spectacle is save for late in the stage and opens at the foot of the 17.1 kilometre monster ascent of the Tourmalet. Upon cresting there’s a long descent and the stage will probably be decided on the climb to the ski resort Hautacam.

Favourites

Joaquim Rodríguez
The Catalan climber is on a mission in France, a very straightforward one at that: mountains classification. However his condition seems to be lacking. Good at the first cols, always dropped at the last one. That is, until now…

Rafal Majka
The 24-year old Pole is doing exactly what Purito planned on doing: taking the mountains classification. Majka won two mountain stages and finished second in Chamrousse. The polka dot jersey is up for grabs. Best climber in teh race, possibly with the exception of Nibali. Will he do it again?

Vincenzo Nibali
The Shark of Messina is in a league of his own. An uphill finish on a legendary col like Hautacam, a win in this glorious terrain would definitely be gilding the Tour victory of the powerful Sicilian.