Tour de France Femmes 2026 Stage 4 Individual Time Trial: Start Times and Key Contenders

The Ultimate Test: Racing Against the Clock for Glory

Stage Overview: The Gevrey-Chambertin to Dijon Time Trial

The fourth stage of the 2026 Tour de France Femmes, a challenging 21-kilometer individual time trial, is strategically positioned to significantly impact the overall standings. This segment, stretching from Gevrey-Chambertin to Dijon, features a dynamic and undulating terrain. Unlike previous editions, this year's race introduces a time trial, ensuring that the general classification battle intensifies well before the peloton reaches the high mountains.

The Course Profile: Unclassified Climbs and Technical Sections

The course for this individual time trial is characterized by its rolling nature, presenting both speed and technical demands. A single intermediate time check is located at the 9.5-kilometer mark, at the Lacets de Marsannay, which involves a 2-kilometer ascent with an average gradient of 6.7%. Following this, riders will navigate another rise to Corcelles-les-Monts, peaking at 300 meters with a 4.8% gradient. Although neither climb is officially categorized, they will undoubtedly test the riders' endurance and power. The final stretch into Dijon is predominantly downhill, offering a fast finish.

Starting Order and Key Competitors: A Battle of Titans and Rising Stars

The start times for the individual time trial are meticulously planned, with riders departing at minute intervals, which extend to two-minute gaps for the top contenders. Romina Hinojosa (Lotto Intermarché), currently holding the 'lanterne rouge' position, will be the first to set off at 2:51 PM CEST. As the day progresses, the focus will shift to the general classification favorites. Notable participants include former TT world champion Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime) at 4:54 PM, Vuelta España Femenina winner Paul Blasi (UAE Team L'IMAD) at 5:04 PM, and reigning world champion Marlen Reusser (Movistar) at 5:08 PM. Other strong contenders like Pauline Ferrand-Prévot (Visma-Lease a Bike), Kasia Niewiadoma (Canyon-SRAM), Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team L'IMAD), and Demi Vollering (FDJ United-Suez) are scheduled for later start times, culminating with current yellow jersey holder Sigrid Haugset (Uno-X Mobility) at 5:28 PM.

Stage Victory Aspirations: Beyond the General Classification

While the individual time trial is crucial for the overall standings, it also presents a prime opportunity for stage specialists to claim victory. British national champion Zoe Bäckstedt (Canyon-SRAM), starting at 4:29 PM, is a strong candidate for the stage win. Cédrine Kerbaol (EF Education-Oatly) and Franziska Koch (FDJ United-Suez) are also expected to deliver powerful performances, adding another layer of excitement to this high-stakes stage.

Complete Start List: Every Rider's Moment to Shine

A comprehensive list details the start order and times for all participants in Stage 4 of the Tour de France Femmes. From the initial riders like Hannah Ludwig (Cofidis) and Mia Griffin (Picnic PostNL) to the final general classification contenders, each athlete will have their moment to demonstrate their time trial prowess and contribute to the unfolding drama of the race.