Tour de France 2024: 11th edition kicks off in Italy

First time in the Tour de France's history. The race will be setting off from here in Italy, starting in Florence for a 206 kilometre rider from Florence to Rimini at the Corsa, which is one of the most gruelling opening stages of the Tour de France with seven categorised ascents and a 3600 kilometre riders here today in 37° of heat. Over the three weeks we'll see 21 stages, including seven mountain stages. Finishing a little bit of a detour, not finishing the traditional Jean Salise in Paris, but instead taking a detour in Nice because of the Olympics in term. Favourites We have still the two favourites who've been battling over the last few years. That's Jonas and Tade Pogasha. Form has come under question because of a serious accident he had back in April during a race in the Basque Country. He punctured a lung, he broke some ribs and broke his collarbone. He hasn't raised since so we're not quite sure how he'll be faring at this year's tour. The Fawcett demand to beat this year will be Tade Pogba Shah, who won in 2020 and 2021 before Vengeance won the next two additions. He has been on fine form after winning the 0 Datalia this year. A compatriot of his may also be in the running. That's privileged. Could it be his year? Could he finally win at all the false after coming so closer back in 2020? And we have a highly anticipated debut this year. That's a Belgium Remco Ivanov poll who is making his debut at the Tour de France this year. He won the welter the Spaniard back in 2022. He will be also want to watch this year. A much more open competition this year with four riders gunning hopefully to win the Wellow jersey.