Paris-Nice 2026 Begins
The 2026 edition of Paris-Nice, often referred to as the ‘Race to the Sun’, is set to take place from March 8 to March 15. Today’s stage covers a distance of 171 kilometers with a significant 1,950 meters of vertical gain, making it a challenging start for the competitors.
The race will finish in Carrières, France, where climbers, sprinters, and classics specialists will all have opportunities to showcase their skills. The weather is expected to be nice, with sunny conditions and a temperature of 17°C.
Today’s stage features multiple ascents of the road to Chanteloup, including a notable climb that is over a kilometer long with an 8% gradient. This climb is expected to be a decisive factor in the race.
As the riders approach the finish line, they will encounter an intermediate sprint that offers time bonuses of 6-4-2 seconds. This could play a crucial role in the overall standings as the race progresses.
Biniam Girmay is considered a strong contender for today’s stage, while Cees Bol, who has a Paris-Nice stage win to his name, is also among the favorites. The competition is expected to be fierce as these athletes vie for victory.
The race has a rich history, first held in 1933 and won by Alfons Schepers. Over the years, it has become a staple in the cycling calendar, attracting top talent from around the world.
As the event unfolds, observers will be keen to see how the riders adapt to the challenging course and the weather conditions. The expected TV coverage is set to start at 3:30 PM CET, with the finish anticipated around 5:00 PM CET.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the route or participant list, but the excitement surrounding this year’s Paris-Nice is palpable.