Following this morning’s confirmation from ASO that the Tour de France will indeed start in Corsica in 2013, more details have emerged about the stages which may feature.
The first three days of the race will be held on the island, with the first of the stages said to begin in Porto Veccio. Corsican newspaper Corse Matin reports that this will be completely flat, will track the east coast and will likely finish with a big bunch sprint into Bastia.
A more difficult stage is expected on day two when the race reportedly races between Bastia and Ajaccio. This follows route nationale 193 in parts, passing through the city of Corte and scaling the second category Col de Vizzavona. This would see more potential for attacks and makes another sprint less than certain.
The final stage on the island looks set to be tougher again, with the riders said to be following the west coast between the start town of Ajaccio and the finish in Calvi. The climbs of the Col San Bastianu, Col San Martinu and Col Marsulinu are tipped to be climbed, while Corse Matin states that the race will also pass through the visually-stunning Calanche de Piana area. This features striking rock formations, and should make for very strong television images as the riders battle it out.
Following the end of the stage, the race will prepare to head back to mainland France. The proximity of an airport and ferry terminal near Calvi should make the logistical demands easier, although it will still be a considerable operation to transport riders, race officials and workers plus the media and gendarmes, as well as the vehicles and Tour infrastructure.
ASO stated today that full details would be announced on December 6th in Ajaccio.