Velikiye Luki - Gruzdovo (WT)

In Western Russia, along the banks of the meandering river Lovat, the start sign for this World Tour race will be given by the mayor of Velikiye Luki, which literally means ‘Great meanders’. After a loop around town, the peloton will pass the enormous train station and the attached industrial zone of the city.

Going in a south-east direction, the riders will cross through the Pskov Oblast province until they will reach the Kunya river after about 54 kilometers of racing, where the first pave section will loom after crossing the old bridge. After 92 kilometers the peloton arrives at the shimmering shores of Lake Zhizhitskoye, from which the route will take a southward bend towards Lake Dvinye, including the historical passage along the river Zahodniaja Dzvina.

After 175 kilometers of racing the surface changes into a horrendous pave section near the town of Vsteselovo that stretches out for almost fifteen kilometers. The riders cross the finish line for the first time after 196 kilometers, after which they will ride two local laps through Gruzdovo. Although the profile of the race suggests the World Tour teams will be enjoying their ride today, the condition of the Russian roads will make sure only the strongest pave specialists will reach Gruzdovo with a chance of a podium position.