It’s once again the most important time of the year for road cycling. On Saturday, the 111th Tour de France rolls out from Florence, Italy, and it’s time to get ready for the racing.

Velo Pod host Hannah Knapp is joined by former pro cyclist Bobby Julich and Velo European Correspondent Andrew Hood to discuss the upcoming 2024 Tour de France.

The discussion begins with the GC contenders and the excitement surrounding Tadej Pogacar who is fresh off a commanding Giro d’Italia victory and looking to complete the elusive Giro-Tour double. For all the hype of the “Big Four” of Pogacar, Vingegaard, Evenepoel, and Roglič does anyone else besides Pogi stand a chance at the yellow jersey after injury riddles seasons? 

The conversation then moves on to the must watch stages, with a focus on the grueling hilly opening stage that features seven consecutive climbs, and the challenging mountain stages and the final stage time trial in Nice. 

When the race finally wraps up, will Mark Cavendish leave as the sole owner of the Tour de France stage win record? He needs one more to best Eddy Merckx, but any win in the Tour de France is a tall order, especially at Cavendish’s age. 

We also discuss the absence of American rider Sepp Kuss, the loyal lieutenant to Vingegaard and the reigning Vuelta champion, and the impact it will have on the race. Things then move on to a discussion about other American riders to watch, including Matteo Jorgensen and Nielson Powless. And of course there’s Sean Quinn representing in his brand new national champion’s jersey.

Finally, Hoody and Bobby fill us in on what has them excited for the 2024 Tour de France beyond the GC race, including top riders to watch.

Listen in wherever you stream podcasts for the full discussion, and tune in to Velo for Tour coverage all race long.