Our writers’ (and photographer’s) Tour predictions

by William Fotheringham

On the eve of what promises to be an exciting, uncertain Tour de France 2020, we’ve put our necks on the block and made our predictions as to the outcome of this year’s race…

Peter Cossins


Top 3: Dumoulin, Bernal, Roglic

Why: Dumoulin’s form was on the rise in the Dauphiné and he may turn out Jumbo’s best option. I’d like to say Pinot for the win but don’t want to hex him.

Chances of Tour getting to Paris: 80%

Sadhbh O’Shea


Top 3: Roglic, Bernal, Pinot

Why: Roglic has been the commanding figure in the peloton since the season resumed and in spite of his crash I believe he can carry that into the Tour. Bernal will be formidable with Ineos strengthening their line-up, and Pinot has been building form in recent weeks.

Chances of Tour getting to Paris: 40%

Sophie Smith


Top 3: Bernal, Roglic, Martinez

Why: The inside of the Ineos team bus will feel very different but Egan Bernal has got ‘it’. Jumbo and EF will make the Tour prime-time, Richie Porte for a stage win.

Chances of Tour getting to Paris: 60%

Jeremy Whittle


Top 3: Bernal, Roglic, Martinez

Why: Despite the loss of Nico Portal, Bernal and his team should be best placed to fend off Jumbo in the final week. Roglic isn’t ready yet to lead the Tour for a long period; Martinez will be suited to the final TT. 

Chances of Tour getting to Paris: 40%

Simon Wilkinson


Top 3: Quintana, Pinot, Carapaz

Why: I reckon Nairo has it in him because top Yorkshire bloke Connor Swift will be yelling at him “C’mon our kid, Man Up”; Pinot ? I’m a Francophile and France deserves a winner for putting the race on anyway; Carapaz? I like the word Ecuador and he seems like a top chap… I think he will win the race.

Chances of Tour getting to Paris: 99.999%

William Fotheringham


Top 3: Dumoulin, Alaphilippe, Bernal 

Why: Dumoulin had the best build-up, Alaphilippe is racing on a route tailor made for him, and Bernal faces the old conundrum of trying to win two Tours in row. We’re used to it now, but it eluded Anquetil and LeMond.

Chances of Tour getting to Paris: 50%

Read William Fotheringham’s Tour preview >

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