Tadej Pogacar: The Favorite to Win Le Tour 2022
Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar has emerged as a dominant force in the world of professional cycling, clinching the prestigious yellow jersey twice with consecutive victories at the Tour de France. As the cycling community eagerly awaits the 2022 edition of Le Tour, Pogacar finds himself in the spotlight once again, now being hailed as the early betting favorite to secure the yellow jersey in the upcoming race.
The Road to Victory
With an impressive track record, Tadej Pogacar has firmly established himself as a formidable competitor on the cycling circuit. In the 2021 Tour de France, Pogacar rode triumphantly into Paris, securing his second consecutive yellow jersey for UAE Team Emirates. This remarkable achievement has garnered him significant attention and solidified his position as a top contender for the 2022 race.
A Promising Start: Grand Depart in Copenhagen
The 2022 Tour de France will commence with a Grand Depart in Copenhagen, Denmark on July 1. This exciting start will set the stage for an exhilarating race that is bound to captivate cycling enthusiasts from around the globe. From the picturesque streets of Copenhagen to the iconic finish line on the Champs-Elysees in Paris, this year’s Tour promises to showcase the beauty and challenges of the cycling world.
Tadej Pogacar vs. Primoz Roglic: A Fierce Rivalry
While Tadej Pogacar currently holds the title of the favorite, he faces stiff competition from his fellow countryman and cycling powerhouse, Primoz Roglic. In the 2020 Tour de France, Roglic finished as the runner-up, leaving a lasting impression on cycling enthusiasts worldwide. Unfortunately, his journey in the 2021 race was cut short due to a devastating crash during the opening stages. However, Roglic remains undeterred and determined to claim the yellow jersey in the 2022 Tour de France.
As the second favorite on the cycling futures board, Roglic is expected to give Pogacar a run for his money, with +220 odds to win the yellow jersey. This thrilling rivalry between two Slovenian riders adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the upcoming race.
Jonas Vingegaard: A Rising Star
Denmark’s very own Jonas Vingegaard, representing Jumbo-Visma, made an impressive mark in the 2021 Tour de France, finishing second in the general classification, a mere 5 minutes and 20 seconds behind Pogacar. Vingegaard’s remarkable performance has catapulted him into the limelight, making him the third favorite on the futures board for the 2022 race, with +600 odds to win Le Tour.
The Quest for a Second Yellow Jersey: Bernal, Thomas, and Froome
Egan Bernal, the 2019 Tour de France champion from Ineos Grenadiers, is setting his sights on securing a second yellow jersey. After skipping the 2021 Tour de France to focus on the Giro d’Italia, Bernal emerged victorious in the pink jersey, showcasing his immense talent and determination. At +900 odds, the Colombian rider is eager to add another major victory to his name and etch his name in the history books as one of the youngest cyclists to achieve a cycling triple crown.
Geraint Thomas, the 2018 champion from Ineos Grenadiers, will likely play a supportive role for his teammate Richard Carapaz in the 2022 race. However, history has shown that anything can happen in the mountains during Le Tour. With +2200 odds, Thomas remains a contender capable of surprising both his teammates and rivals.
Chris Froome, a four-time champion, seeks to solidify his status as a cycling legend by claiming a fifth yellow jersey. Although injuries have plagued Froome in recent years, his determination remains unwavering. Riding for Israel Start-Up Nation, Froome faces long odds with +10000, but his experience and tenacity make him a rider worthy of attention.
Long Shots and Dark Horses: The Battle for Supremacy
While Pogacar, Roglic, and Vingegaard dominate the conversation, there are several intriguing riders who could emerge as surprising contenders. French riders, in particular, are hungry for success, as Bernard Hinault was the last Frenchman to win the Tour de France in 1985.
Julian Alaphilippe, the daring and enigmatic French cyclist, has captivated his home country with his performances. Although considered a long shot with +10000 odds, Alaphilippe has demonstrated his prowess in individual stage wins, making him a potential force to be reckoned with.
Thibaut Pinot, the highest-ranked French rider on the odds board at +8000, poses a threat, along with David Gaudu, another French talent boasting the same odds. Their determination to bring back the glory days for French cycling is sure to make them fierce competitors throughout the race.
Aside from the French contenders, Miguel Angel Lopez of team Astana, aptly nicknamed Superman, also carries +8000 odds. While his chances may appear slim, the spirited Spanish rider has proven his mettle in demanding races and possesses the potential to spring a surprise on the peloton.
Conclusion
The 2022 Tour de France is shaping up to be a thrilling battle between the world’s finest cyclists. With Tadej Pogacar, Primoz Roglic, and Jonas Vingegaard leading the pack, the competition promises a display of endurance, skill, and strategic brilliance. However, the race is not without its dark horses and long shots, who seek to challenge the favorites and potentially make history themselves. As the cycling world awaits the Grand Depart in Copenhagen, the stage is set for an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and grueling terrains of France.
FAQs
1. When does the 2022 Tour de France begin?
The 2022 Tour de France is set to start on July 1 with a Grand Depart in Copenhagen, Denmark.
2. Who are the top favorites to win the yellow jersey in the 2022 Tour de France?
Tadej Pogacar, Primoz Roglic, and Jonas Vingegaard are currently the top favorites to win the yellow jersey in the 2022 Tour de France.
3. Has a French rider won the Tour de France recently?
No, the last French rider to win the Tour de France was Bernard Hinault in 1985. French riders are eager to break the dry spell and bring back the glory days of French cycling.
4. Can Egan Bernal secure a cycling triple crown?
Yes, Egan Bernal only needs to win the Vuelta a Espana (Tour of Spain) to achieve a cycling triple crown. This feat, accomplished by only six other cyclists, would cement his status as one of the sport’s greats.
5. Will Chris Froome make a comeback in the 2022 Tour de France?
Chris Froome, a four-time champion, is aiming for a comeback in the 2022 Tour de France. However, he faces long odds and will need to confront his injuries and prove his former dominance once again.
