Tour de France 2026: Stage 4 Profile, Favorites, and Key Moments

The fourth stage of the 2026 Tour de France, departing from Carcassonne and concluding in Foix, presents a demanding 181.9 km route that promises significant action. This hilly stage features an elevation gain of 2,700 meters and includes four categorized climbs, notably the Col de Bedos (4th category), Col du Paradis (3rd category), and the more challenging Col de Coudons and Col de Montségur. The latter two climbs, with gradients averaging 5.5% and 6.6% respectively over considerable distances, will test the riders' resilience.

Following the final ascent of Montségur, cyclists will navigate a series of descents before reaching the finish line in Foix. Race director Thierry Gouvenou suggests the stage is tailor-made for the peloton's best punchers. While the final 35 kilometers offer a flatter profile, potentially giving sprinters a slim chance, Gouvenou believes riders with the strength to handle the double category 2 climbs, akin to a Van der Poel or Van Aert profile, are more likely to succeed. He notes that pure sprinters like Merlier would likely struggle to keep pace.

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Sprinters will have a small chance because the last 35 kilometers are rather flat, but I see a profile more suited to a Van der Poel or a Van Aert, who unfortunately will not be there. You have to be super resistant to be able to chain the two second-category climbs, and I don't think the pure sprinter with the profile of a Merlier will make it.

With strong contenders like Wout van Aert absent, the stage opens opportunities for a diverse range of riders. Mathieu van der Poel is a strong candidate for victory, alongside Mads Pedersen. Adventurous riders such as Mathias Vacek and Magnus Cort Nielsen could also make their mark. Kévin Vauquelin might also emerge as a contender after navigating the initial difficult days. Meanwhile, overall favorites Jonas Vingegaard, Tadej Pogacar, and Isaac del Toro are expected to ride defensively, preserving their energy for future stages.

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After that, the Col de Montségur, with the Cathar castle, is really nice. If you can stop there, go for it.