THEMOVE Podcast Episode Summary

Title: Tour de France Stage 18 | The Sir Wiggo & Johan Show
Release Date: July 24, 2025
Hosts: Sir Bradley Wiggins & Johan Bruyneel

Introduction to Stage 18

In this episode of THEMOVE, Lance Armstrong delves into the intricacies of Stage 18 of the Tour de France, setting the stage from VIF to Courchevel, which features the formidable Col de Lauz with its 5,500 meters of elevation over 171 kilometers. Recognized as the "Queen Stage," this segment is touted as the hardest of the Tour, demanding both strategic prowess and physical endurance from the cyclists.

Ben O’Connor’s Triumphant Victory

[01:09] Sir Bradley Wiggins:
"Ben o’ Connor. You know, when Ben wins, he wins big. It's his second stage in the Tour de France..."
Bradley commends Ben O’Connor for his impressive performance, highlighting his resilience and consistency despite injuries sustained early in the Tour. O’Connor's persistence is lauded as he secures his second stage win, marking a significant achievement in his cycling career.

[01:34] Sir Bradley Wiggins:
"I love how his perseverance in this tour has paid off for him... finally paid off for today to win on the toughest climb Queen stage."
Bradley emphasizes O’Connor’s ability to remain in breakaways and his strategic positioning in the mountains, which culminated in his well-deserved victory on Stage 18.

Primo Roglic’s Strategic Ride

[07:42] Sir Bradley Wiggins:
"I'm not too sure... what his tactic was. Maybe it was with a view that they were going to launch up the road before that happened..."
Bradley discusses Primo Roglic's performance, noting his exceptional form and questioning his tactical decisions during the stage. Despite Roglic initiating early, there was an unexpected stalemate, leading to him maintaining control without significant threats.

[14:10] Johan Bruyneel:
"I personally think that tomorrow Oscar only is going to be in third position, in third place on the podium. Don't you think he's riding well?"
Johan points out Oscar's consistent performance, projecting his likely podium finish based on his steady efforts and strategic riding throughout the Tour.

Johan Bruyneel’s UCI Controversy

[03:19] Johan Bruyneel:
Johan addresses a recent controversy involving his presence at the Tour de France, despite a lifetime ban from official UCI functions. He explains that he was invited by Belgian TV with an official media pass, challenging the UCI’s stance and seeking legal advice to contest the press release issued by UCI President David La Partien. Johan invites experts in sports or labor law to assist, highlighting his commitment to resolving the matter.

Analyzing Visma’s Tactics

[09:47] Johan Bruyneel:
"Instead of following the moves was Tim Wellens attacking on his own straight away. Yeah, that was a bit strange..."
Johan critiques Team Visma’s unconventional tactics, particularly Tim Wellens’ solo attack. This decision diverged from traditional team strategies, leading to unexpected dynamics in the race.

[10:25] Johan Bruyneel:
"The modern day tactics, none of it really makes sense... tactics seem to have gone out the window of what we normally deploy."
Bradley echoes concerns over the evolving and sometimes perplexing tactics employed by teams, suggesting a departure from textbook strategies that could impact race outcomes.

[18:05] Johan Bruyneel:
After a sponsor segment, Johan delves deeper into Visma’s approach, praising their initial control but critiquing their inability to maintain momentum in the valley, which allowed competitors like Pugachar to capitalize on brief pauses in the race.

Tim Wellens’ Solo Endeavor

[09:47] Johan Bruyneel:
"Tim Wellens attacking on his own straight away... that was a bit strange."
Johan expresses surprise at Wellens’ decision to ride solo, questioning its effectiveness and the potential strain it placed on the rider, ultimately leading to Wellens being dropped later in the stage.

[14:00] Sir Bradley Wiggins:
"Tim Wellens has done this many times already... attacks that you say not just in the Tour, but like in Paris."
Bradley discusses Wellens’ history of aggressive attacks, suggesting that while the move was risky, it aligns with his aggressive racing style.

Performance of Jonas Tade and Lipovitz

[13:56] Sir Bradley Wiggins:
"What surprised me was, though, Lipovitz got dropped, didn't he?"
Bradley highlights Jonas Tade Lipovitz’s unexpected drop during the stage, attributing it to a lack of strategic energy conservation and questioning his riding decisions.

[15:21] Johan Bruyneel:
"He's riding well... It's 22 seconds now between them."
Johan assesses the gap between key riders, indicating that while Lipovitz was dropped, contenders like Oscar remain strong contenders for upcoming stages.

Upcoming Stage 19 Analysis

[26:09] Johan Bruyneel:
Discussing the final stages, Johan predicts that Visma’s dominance may continue but remains open to potential surprises, especially if key riders like Sepkúd face health issues or strategic missteps.

[27:44] Johan Bruyneel:
"From this side it's not that bad from the other side I know it a very famous crash of me going down the ravine and then finally La Planya..."
Johan previews Stage 19, detailing its challenging climbs and expressing curiosity about Visma’s strategies, especially in light of recent rider performances.

Ben O’Connor’s Resilience and Leadership

[24:00] Johan Bruyneel:
"What a win. He just as you said, Bradley, he took every opportunity, every single stage he could."
Johan commends O’Connor’s tactical intelligence and perseverance, especially given his early Tour injuries and the pressure of leading a new team.

[25:07] Johan Bruyneel:
"That was impressive because I remember this, the stage two and three after the crash, he looked very bad."
Reflecting on O’Connor’s journey, Johan emphasizes his remarkable comeback and steadfast leadership, portraying him as a model of determination and strategic excellence.

Daily Trivia

Stage 17 Question:
"Location of stage 17 is known for peloton breaking winds. What formation do riders form to try and combat the crosswinds?"
Answer:
Echelons.

Today's Question:
"A recent addition to the high mountain finishes in the Tour. The Col de la Loze of today is quickly gaining infamy for decisive duels in GC Jacobs. What feature of this climb makes it unique amongst the other climbs used in the Tour?"
Listeners are encouraged to submit answers for a chance to win prizes.

Closing Remarks

The hosts wrap up the episode by reflecting on the day's events and teasing the upcoming Stage 19, highlighting its challenging nature and the strategic decisions that could influence the final standings of the Tour de France.

Notable Quotes:

• Sir Bradley Wiggins [00:00]:
  "The modern day tactics, none of it really makes sense... tactics seem to have gone out the window of what we normally deploy."

• Johan Bruyneel [03:19]:
  "I disagree with Laportien and that I am looking into possibilities for him to retract that statement and see if there's any legal action I can take."

• Sir Bradley Wiggins [16:43]:
  "He's waiting for them, he's regrouping, he's not panicking... that's what you do as a team leader."

• Johan Bruyneel [23:00]:
  "If I would be them, I would go in to go for the stage win with send Guy sent climbers in the break."

This episode offers listeners an in-depth analysis of Stage 18 of the Tour de France, blending tactical discussions with personal insights from seasoned cycling experts. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual follower, THEMOVE provides a comprehensive insider perspective on one of the world's most iconic sporting events.