For the 84th edition of Luxembourg’s biggest cycling race, the organizers of the ŠkodaTour de Luxembourg have once again designed a magnificent and varied route, with some new features. ŠkodaTour President Andy Schleck analyzes the different stages from his perspective.
Stage 1: Luxembourg-Knuedler – Luxembourg-Fëschmaart (158 km)
We have always had the ambition to return to the heart of the capital. That’s where the people are, and that’s where they can easily follow the race. The perfect place for the ŠkodaTour de Luxembourg. This time, we start at Knuedler, with the finish at Fëschmaart after an ascent. The finish will be tough but very interesting with a long uphill sprint. So the suspense will remain until the end.
Stage 2: Junglinster – Schifflange (155 km)
We want to offer something for all types of riders. The second stage is definitely one for the sprinters, even though the final course with the Poteau de Kayl is not exactly flat. Nevertheless, I think most sprinters will be able to overcome this difficulty. For the spectators, it will be a great day, as the riders will pass through Schifflange twice before the finish.
Stage 3: Rosport – Diekirch (201.3 km)
We put a lot of thought into designing the queen stage of the ŠkodaTour de Luxembourg 2024. This stage is already challenging enough before reaching the final circuit around Diekirch, with three tough climbs to overcome. Even the strongest riders will have to dig deep to stay in the front rows. In the last 31 kilometers, which will also be on a circuit, there will be no fewer than six climbs! The profile is really interesting, especially in the second part of the stage. Many riders will cross the finish line alone or in small groups.
Stage 4: Time Trial Differdange – Differdange (15.5 km)
A time trial is also not easy to plan. You need a fairly long circuit that is completely closed off. Rider safety is our top priority. A time trial of more than 15 km has proven successful in recent years. Riders can create time gaps here. At the Col de l’Europe, which is one kilometer long, climbing skills are required. Anyone who loses too much time on the ascent will not be able to make it up on the flat portion of the course. Then comes the descent to Differdange. A descent so close to the finish is always tricky. But it is precisely on this course that we have already run stages in the past, so it shouldn’t cause too many problems.
Stage 5: Mersch – Luxembourg-Limpertsberg (176.9 km)
The final stage will once again be a real test. On the last day, the riders’ motivation is generally different. But the final course with the ascent of Pabeierbierg has proven its worth in recent years. Why change something that works? There is indeed a modification in Limpertsberg due to construction work, but it won’t have much impact. This final stage is always a great spectacle that pleases both spectators and riders.