Tour de France 2024: Who Takes The Yellow Jersey Home?

Every year, the Tour de France guarantees one thing: there are no guarantees. But despite the fact that any number of variables can affect the outcome of the race, we've still outlined the key riders to keep an eye on over the next month.

The Contenders

Tadej Pogačar (Team UAE)

The two-time Tour winner Tadej Pogačar enters the 2024 Tour de France with a wave of momentum. His ambition to become the first rider since 1998 to win both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour in the same year is a testament to his extraordinary talent. Pogačar's dominance at the Giro, finishing almost 10 minutes ahead of second place, has silenced doubters and positioned him as the bookmakers’ favorite for the yellow jersey. Supported by a strong squad including the Spanish prodigy Juan Ayuso, Pogačar's performance will be closely watched as he attempts to make history.

Jonas Vingegaard (Visma–Lease a Bike)

Defending champion Jonas Vingegaard's preparation for the Tour has been marred by a serious crash at the Itzulia Basque Country race in April. With no races since the crash, Vingegaard’s form and readiness are uncertain. Nevertheless, his presence at the Grand Depart in Florence signifies his determination to defend his title. His performance will be a critical factor in the race’s outcome, and all eyes will be on his ability to recover and compete at his best.

Primož Roglič (BORA–hansgrohe)

Primož Roglič, another Slovenian contender, has faced his share of challenges leading up to the Tour. Although he claimed victory at the recent Critérium du Dauphiné, a crash during the race has raised concerns about his form. Roglič's resilience and experience will be vital as he aims for the podium, but his physical condition remains a question mark.

Remco Evenepoel (Soudal–Quickstep)

Making his Tour de France debut, Remco Evenepoel is a wildcard in this year’s race. Known for his time-trial prowess, the 59km of time trials in this year's Tour play to his strengths. However, his climbing ability at this level remains unproven, and he may face challenges in the mountains, potentially finding himself isolated without sufficient team support.

Other Notable Riders

Egan Bernal (Ineos Grenadiers)

Egan Bernal will be aiming to prove his return to top form following a long-term injury. His performance will be a testament to his recovery and determination. Bernal, along with his team-mate Tom Pidcock, represents a strong challenge from Ineos Grenadiers.

Matteo Jorgenson (Visma–Lease a Bike)

Matteo Jorgenson is expected to play a crucial role in supporting Vingegaard's yellow jersey campaign. However, should Vingegaard falter, Jorgenson may have to step up as the team leader, a scenario that adds an intriguing twist to the team dynamics.

Derek Gee (Israel–Premier Tech) and Ben Healy (EF Education–EasyPost)

Both Gee and Healy showed promise at the Dauphiné, with Gee taking an unexpected podium place. These young riders will aim for top-ten finishes and stage wins in the mountains, showcasing the depth of talent in the peloton.

Fred Wright (Bahrain–Victorious)

Fred Wright, a British puncheur, has been on the verge of a breakthrough win for several years. The 2024 Tour de France may be his moment to finally secure a stage victory, adding another layer of excitement to the race.

The Unpredictability of the Tour

The Tour de France is renowned for its unpredictability. As we approach the start of the race, the only certainty is that anything can happen. Whether it’s a dramatic comeback, a surprising new contender, or an unexpected twist, the world's greatest cycle race never fails to deliver epic storylines.

The Role of Cycling Apparel

In a race where every second counts, having the right cycling apparel is crucial. High-performance gear, like the new Ventus Summer/Spring 2024 collection, offers riders the aerodynamic advantages and comfort needed for grueling climbs and sprints. Investing in quality cycling apparel can make a significant difference in a rider's performance, ensuring they stay at the top of their game throughout the Tour.

As we await the start of the Tour de France 2024, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. With so many top contenders and storylines to follow, this year's race promises to be one for the ages. Keep an eye on these key riders, and enjoy the spectacle of the world’s greatest cycling event.