The 2026 Tour de France is set to begin in Barcelona this afternoon, featuring a 19.6km team time-trial through the vibrant streets of the city. However, Lotto Intermarché may face a setback as their sprinter Arnaud De Lie is dealing with stomach issues, having been seen entering the team car during a pre-race warm-up.

Tadej Pogacar stands out as a favorite, showcasing his continuous improvement and versatility. With an unbeaten streak since the 2023 Tour de France, Pogacar looks ready to defend his title. His main rival, Jonas Vingegaard from Visma-Lease a Bike, is brimming with confidence following a strong performance at the Giro d’Italia and claims to be “better than ever.”

Other contenders include:

• Isaac Del Toro, making his debut under Pogacar’s mentorship.
• Juan Ayuso from Lidl-Trek, who has shown impressive form this year.
• Remco Evenepoel and Florian Lipowitz from Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, both looking to secure podium spots.
• Paul Seixas, a wildcard entry.

The return of the TTT, absent from the Tour for seven years, will see teams racing against the clock, with a focus on power, cohesion, and aerodynamics. Unlike traditional formats, this year’s TTT will feature individual timing, putting pressure on teams to maintain their best riders through the course.

The course is primarily flat but includes two short hills in the final stretch, making it crucial for teams to strategize effectively. Winning this stage is not just about speed; it symbolizes a team's strength and could set the tone for the entire race. The top teams to watch include Netcompany Ineos, Visma-Lease a Bike, Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, and UAE Team Emirates-XRG, home to defending champion Tadej Pogacar.