We could have decided on another very tough stage in the Alpine foothills, which would have led to more struggles for the ascendancy, but that would have been pointless. The riders will have had three or four significant days at the start of the race, before encountering four fairly difficult days. As a result, this route, which sets off from Sisteron (with its citadel) for a finish in the Drôme, does not include any obstacles that should prevent a sprint finish, despite the presence of the Col de Cabre pass.