Stage 15: Cesana Torinese to Col du Galibier (Valloire), 149km, high mountains

At the time of writing, due to weather conditions this stage is due to finish 4.25km below the summit of the Galibier at the site of the Pantani Memorial, although it is entirely possible this plan will continue to be revised even once the race is under way.

Before the Galibier is even reached the peloton must get over the Col du Mont Cenis and Telegraphe, so this could be a ripper of a stage regardless of where it finishes. Of course, it was on the Galibier that Andy Schleck showed that he could look into his suitcase full of courage and come up with the goods, when he took the stage in an audacious breakaway in the 2011 Tour de France.

With the rest day to follow, it’s a key opportunity for the brave to test the tired legs of their rivals and potentially gain a bunch of time. If anyone is serious about taking on Vincenzo Nibali, they will want to reverse yesterday’s time losses to the race leader today.

Link: Official website