By Margaret Martin
The 2024 Critérium du Dauphiné is shaping up to be a formidable challenge, attracting some of the strongest climbers in the cycling world. Notably, top contenders like Primož Roglič, Remco Evenepoel, and Sepp Kuss are expected to dominate the event.
This year’s race is particularly demanding for pure climbers, with mountain summit finishes featured in five of the eight stages and an intense time trial. Organizers have devised a tough route, ensuring that only the best will thrive. While the course is set to be thrilling, a string of unfortunate injuries has affected the lineup, notably sidelining defending champion Jonas Vingegaard.
The Danish rider is in recovery from multiple injuries sustained in the Itzulia Basque Country race and won’t be able to defend his title this year. This development leaves the door wide open for other elite riders to make their mark in one of the most challenging pre-Tour de France races.
Remco Evenepoel and Primož Roglič: Top Contenders for the 2024 Critérium du Dauphiné
Remco Evenepoel and Primož Roglič are emerging as major contenders for the 2024 Critérium du Dauphiné despite recent setbacks. Evenepoel, after suffering a crash that led to a broken collarbone and scapula, has shown remarkable recovery. With intense training in the Sierra Nevada and his prowess as the World Time Trial Champion, he is expected to shine in the stage 4 individual time trial. The mountainous final stages will test his climbing skills, but his recent preparations indicate he is up to the challenge.
Meanwhile, Roglič, now with Bora-Hansgrohe, has also bounced back from a knee injury. His performance in the time trial at Itzulia Basque Country suggests he’s on an upward trend. The Dauphiné’s demanding terrain suits Roglič’s strengths, making him a formidable opponent. Alongside these top cyclists, Carlos Rodríguez is also a name to watch.
His impressive finishes in recent races position him as a strong contender. Overall, these athletes are shaping the unpredictable and exciting nature of this year’s Critérium du Dauphiné. As the race approaches, they will certainly be on everyone’s list of winning bets.
Sepp Kuss and Juan Ayuso: Potential Breakthroughs at the 2024 Critérium du Dauphiné
Sepp Kuss is stepping into the spotlight as he leads Visma at the 2024 Critérium du Dauphiné. With teammate Jonas Vingegaard recovering from injuries, Kuss, who won the 2023 Vuelta a España, is poised to take on the steep climbs that dominate the final stages. This terrain suits him perfectly and offers an opportunity to demonstrate his climbing abilities.
Similarly, Juan Ayuso is another rider to watch. Already showing his talent in previous Grand Tours and with recent successes, Ayuso is expected to make a significant impact, potentially landing him another podium finish before supporting Tadej Pogačar in the Tour de France.
Meanwhile, riders like Santiago Buitrago and David Gaudu are also looking to make their mark. Despite early-season setbacks, both athletes have shown resilience and a determination to succeed. Buitrago had promising moments before a couple of crashes derailed his performance. At the same time, Gaudu, after a series of misfortunes, is eager to prove he is still a major contender for Groupama-FDJ.
The punishing Dauphiné route offers an ideal stage for these riders to showcase their strengths and make a name for themselves before the Tour de France.
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Categories: Cycling
