There are only five real mountain stages, fewer than 2016. "This Tour de France route has been designed to be won by a true champion," Tour director Christian Prudhomme insisted, without naming Froome, winner in 2013, 2015 and 2016 or any favourite. If the playing field has been levelled by cutting down on mountains the alternative challenges opens the door to he who dares, Prudhomme promised. As the tour starts in the north, Prudhomme, president of tour organisers ASO explained the route has to be 'J' shaped, and this year misses the north and west of France entirely as it enters France via Belgium. With nine varied flat stages, five hilly ones designed to open up the challenge, the five real mountain stages are designed to have a visual backdrop which will amplify the exploits of the athletes who excel there.

Source: The Local October 18, 2016 10:07 UTC