"It's late in the year, but there's still time for a Classic, with Paris-Tours one of the most historic races in the sport, having first been held in 1896. These days it doesn't have top-level WorldTour status, but the organisers ASO have tried to breathe new life with the introduction of gravel tracks through the vineyards around Tours. The move has been slightly controversial but there were certainly striking scenes 12 months ago when a mud-caked Christophe Laporte emerged victorious."
"Laporte is back but not a favourite due to his injury-hit campaign, but his Visma-Lease a Bike teammate, the British sensation Matthew Brennan, could be a contender. The pre-race favourite is arguable Jasper Philipsen (Alpecin-Deceuninck), while another story to look out for is former winner Arnaud Démare (Arkéa-B&B Hotels), who's bringing the curtain down on his career. The race will be available on several platforms across the world,"
Paris-Tours returns on Sunday, October 12, as a late-season Classic with gravel-infused sectors added through the vineyards around Tours. The race, first held in 1896, no longer holds WorldTour status but features renewed interest due to the ASO's gravel additions. The gravel introduction proved controversial yet produced dramatic scenes last year when mud-covered Christophe Laporte won. Laporte returns but is not a favourite after an injury-hit season, while teammate Matthew Brennan could contend. Jasper Philipsen is a leading pre-race favourite. Former winner Arnaud Démare will retire after this race. Broad live TV and streaming coverage will be available internationally.
Read at Cyclingnews
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