The Tour de Romandie 2025 kicked off on Tuesday, April 29, with an electrifying prologue in the picturesque town of Saint-Imier. Cyclists faced a challenging 3.44 km course that tested their speed and precision, featuring ten turns, including two sharp 180-degree bends. With the first rider, Lennert Van Eetvelt from Lotto, starting at 15:13, the event promised excitement right from the get-go.
As the defending champion, Carlos Rodriguez from INEOS Grenadiers was back to defend his title, having claimed victory in the previous year’s edition. However, all eyes were on Remco Evenepoel from Soudal Quick-Step, who emerged as the clear favorite for this year’s race. After a disappointing performance at Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Evenepoel was eager to prove his mettle and secure a strong start in this prestigious stage race.
Joao Almeida, representing UAE Team Emirates, was expected to be Evenepoel's toughest competitor. Almeida, known for his consistency and strength, aimed to capitalize on Evenepoel's potential vulnerabilities, especially after the latter's recent recovery from injury. The competition was further intensified by the presence of other notable cyclists, including David Gaudu from Groupama-FDJ and Lenny Martinez from Bahrain Victorious, both of whom were keen to make their mark in this year’s Tour.
The prologue set the tone for the week ahead, with a live broadcast available on Eurosport and La Chaîne L’Équipe, ensuring fans could catch every thrilling moment. The first stage would follow on Wednesday, April 30, covering a distance of 194.3 km from Münchenstein to Fribourg, with a projected arrival time around 17:30.
This year’s Tour de Romandie encompasses a total of six stages, spanning over 683 kilometers and showcasing the stunning Swiss landscapes. The first stage is particularly notable for crossing seven cantons, including Bâle Campagne, Soleure, Berne, Jura, Neuchâtel, Vaud, and Fribourg. It features four categorized climbs that will challenge even the most seasoned riders.
On May 1, the second stage will take the cyclists on a 157 km route, starting and finishing in La Grande Béroche. This stage includes several climbs, such as the Col de la Tourne and Mauborget, which will test the riders’ endurance and climbing skills.
May 2 will see the third stage, a grueling 183.1 km trek starting and finishing in Cossonay. The stage includes two climbs that are known for their steep gradients, making it a critical point in the race for those looking to gain an advantage in the overall standings.
The queen stage of the Tour, scheduled for May 3, will commence in Sion and culminate at Thyon 2000, a challenging summit finish that promises to be a decisive moment in the competition. Riders will have to navigate a series of steep ascents, including the difficult climb to Anzère, which will be crucial for those aiming for the yellow jersey.
Finally, the Tour will conclude on May 4 with an individual time trial in Geneva, where riders will race against the clock over a distance of 17.1 km. This stage will be especially significant, as it includes a portion through the historic Vieille Ville, adding an extra layer of challenge and excitement.
As the prologue commenced, fans were treated to a thrilling display of cycling prowess, with the atmosphere buzzing with anticipation. The competition is expected to be fierce, with each stage presenting unique challenges that could shift the balance of power among the contenders.
With the first yellow jersey on the line, every second counts, and the stakes are higher than ever. As the riders navigate the twists and turns of the course, spectators can expect nothing short of an exhilarating week of cycling in the heart of Switzerland.
Stay tuned for updates as the Tour de Romandie unfolds, showcasing both the grit and grace of the world’s top cyclists as they battle for glory on the demanding Swiss roads.
