THEMOVE Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Tour de France Stage 9 | The Sir Wiggo & Johan Show
Release Date: July 13, 2025
Host: Lance Armstrong
Introduction
In this captivating episode of THEMOVE, Lance Armstrong hosts a dynamic discussion featuring cycling legends Bradley Wiggins, commentator Phil Liggett, and Johan Brunel. The trio delves deep into the thrilling events of Tour de France Stage 9, analyzing tactical maneuvers, team dynamics, and standout performances that defined the day.
Stage 9 Overview
Matthew van der Poel’s Ambitious Attack
The highlight of Stage 9 was undoubtedly Matthew van der Poel's audacious attack from the very start ([01:31] Bradley Wiggins). Breaking away at kilometer zero, van der Poel and his teammate maintained an impressive solo lead of 207 km, making it the seventh longest solo break in Tour de France history. Despite their extraordinary effort, they were ultimately caught within the last kilometer, leaving the peloton in awe of their sheer determination.
“Of the day? I mean, there's a few things today, but the main one today was Matthew Vanderpool's attack from kilometer zero, pretty much. And getting caught with one kilometer to go and 2, with a teammate as well.”
— Bradley Wiggins[01:31]
Phil Liggett’s Reaction
Phil Liggett echoed Wiggins' sentiments, praising the boldness of the attack and recognizing its impact on the race dynamics.
“I agree this was definite event of the day. You know, respect to Tim who won the stage, but this was definitely the, the talk of the day.”
— Phil Liggett[01:53]
Guest Insights: Bradley Wiggins Reflects on His Tour de France Experience
A Memorable Solo Breakaway
Bradley Wiggins reminisced about his own 207 km solo breakaway during the 2007 Tour de France, undertaken in honor of Tommy Simpson's 50th death anniversary. Reflecting on the experience, Wiggins highlighted the grueling nature of such efforts and the fleeting hope of leading the race.
“I spent 207km alone in the front that day... My breakaway is 207. It's still the seventh longest solo break in Tour de France history.”
— Bradley Wiggins[07:51]
Modern Cycling Tactics vs. Past Strategies
Wiggins contrasted his era with the current state of cycling, noting the increasing complexity and audacity of modern race strategies, which often leave him marveling at today's riders.
“We're witnessing these kinds of things now in modern-day cycling where, from my time and obviously your time, it was unheard of...”
— Bradley Wiggins[04:13]
Team Strategies and Dynamics
Impact of João Almeida’s Abandonment
The discussion shifted to the significant impact of João Almeida abandoning the race due to a crash. Wiggins emphasized Almeida's prowess as the most successful stage racer of the year, sparking concerns about the future strategies of teams like Visma and UAE.
“It's always a tough order, wasn't it, for him to... But today, if you take Tade out of this race... it would have been a very different race.”
— Bradley Wiggins[13:56]
Visma’s Tactical Adjustments
With Almeida out, Visma now faces the challenge of recalibrating their strategy. Wiggins speculated on Visma's possible moves, considering riders like Tim Wellens and Adam Yates stepping up to fill the void, ensuring the team remains competitive in the General Classification (GC).
“Tim Wellens has been doing... It has given a new lease of life... Tim Wellens is now going to be the most crucial rider, I think.”
— Bradley Wiggins[17:08]
Sprint Analysis: Jonathan Milan vs. Campenaerts
An Unorthodox Sprint Strategy
The episode featured an in-depth analysis of the sprint between Jonathan Milan and Remco Evenepoel. Liggett and Brunel dissected Milan's unique sprinting technique, highlighting his aerodynamic efficiency and power application despite his unconventional approach.
“Jonathan Milan... he pedals a smaller gear than most. He almost looks geared for the power and the talk that he's producing in those sprints.”
— Bradley Wiggins[29:25]
Aerodynamics and Efficiency
The conversation delved into how riders like Campenaerts leverage aerodynamics to gain an edge in sprints, contrasting it with Milan's more power-intensive method.
“Even in those crosswinds and all those line outs, Milan's are working that bit harder than everyone else.”
— Bradley Wiggins[30:08]
Upcoming Stage Preview: Stage 10
Challenging Terrain Ahead
Looking forward to Stage 10, the hosts anticipated a grueling route characterized by 165 kilometers of terrain with eight category two climbs and a final category three climb with a steep 8% gradient over three kilometers. This stage is expected to be a "suffering fest" for many riders, testing their endurance and strategic planning.
“Seven category two climbs and one category three climb. Seven category two climbs. And they're all like, just not long enough... These are the harder ones.”
— Phil Liggett[37:31]
Strategic Battles
The panel speculated on potential tactical battles, particularly focusing on the showdown between Jonas and Tadej Pogačar, considering the exhaustion levels after ten demanding days in the Tour.
“All eyes will be fixated on tomorrow, it's that battle between Jonas and Tade.”
— Bradley Wiggins[40:23]
Conclusion
The episode concluded with the hosts expressing anticipation for the intense developments in the upcoming stages, highlighting the ever-evolving strategies and the indomitable spirit of the riders. Their expert analysis provided listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics at play in the Tour de France.
Notable Quotes
-
“Any time you want to be in a breakaway, either alone or with another rider, any other race it would just be the worst thing in the world, wouldn't it? But the Tour de France... it actually goes very quick.”
— Bradley Wiggins[08:54] -
“These are the harder ones. Because it's not a mountain day, you know, riders that don't expect to get through the stage will have to do the job early on for the teams and be there as long as possible.”
— Bradley Wiggins[37:56]
This episode of THEMOVE offers an enthralling blend of personal anecdotes, expert analysis, and strategic insights, making it a must-listen for cycling enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of the Tour de France's intricate battles.