2021 Paris-Nice Race Preview
The details of this year's 2021 Paris-Nice are falling into place. Find the latest route profiles and maps below, followed by our strategic preview of the race.
Paris-Nice returns for its 79th edition, with the race once again promising a fascinating battle between the classics specialists and the pure climbers as the peloton heads from the outskirts of the French capital towards the Côte d'Azur over eight demanding stages.
The race begins on Sunday March 7th and will serve as an important early season benchmark for riders who have ambitions at the major tours and monuments later in the year. The weather, as ever at this time of year, could play a significant role, with the potential for cold and difficult conditions in the opening stages before the race reaches the sunnier south.
Defending champion Maximilian Schachmann of Bora-Hansgrohe will be looking to repeat his impressive victory from 2020, when the German proved he was capable of handling both the punchy northern stages and the climbing tests in the final days. His ability to follow attacks in the mountains while retaining the ability to contest sprint finishes makes him one of the most dangerous candidates.
Primoz Roglic arrives as one of the firm favourites after a winter of solid preparation. The Jumbo-Visma leader has shown repeatedly that he is capable of producing his best form early in the season, and the time trial on the final day could prove decisive for a rider of his abilities against the clock.
Guillaume Martin of Cofidis will carry the hopes of the home fans and has shown genuine climbing ability in recent seasons. The philosopher turned professional cyclist will be eager to demonstrate that his performances in 2020 were no fluke.
Alexey Lutsenko and David Gaudu are names to watch among the climbers, while the sprinters will target the flatter opening stages before the race tilts decisively towards the mountains. The final stage finish atop the Col d'Èze should, as tradition dictates, settle the overall classification in dramatic fashion.
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