Tour Down Under
The Tour Down Under opens the WorldTour season each January in South Australia. This 6-stage race (including prologue) features two decisive mountain stages in the Adelaide Hills - Stage 2 on the feared Corkscrew Road and Stage 4 featuring the iconic triple ascent of Willunga Hill. The format creates multiple GC opportunities: the prologue establishes early gaps, Corkscrew Road on Stage 2 provides the first major test, and Willunga Hill typically decides the ochre jersey on Stage 4. The final stage now features a circuit finish rather than a traditional sprint, adding drama to the finale.
Where to watch
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The route, day by day
QUEEN
Who to watch & what to watch for
Top Starters
Jerseys
placeholder Actual jersey colours depend on the race. Shown here as a generic template.
Fight for the overall
Narratives to watch
- Narváez defends: Can UAE's defending champion repeat on the toughest TDU course ever?
- UAE Team Emirates-XRG brings overwhelming depth with Narváez, Vine, and Yates - team tactics will be fascinating
- Ben O'Connor returns home seeking redemption after near-misses at previous editions
- Matthew Brennan's breakthrough? The young Visma rider could announce himself on the WorldTour stage
- Three Willunga ascents unprecedented - the queen stage will rewrite TDU history
- New circuit finish at Stirling creates unpredictable finale - can GC leaders survive?
Form book & lore
The Tour Down Under has been the traditional WorldTour season opener since 1999, held annually in the Adelaide region of South Australia. Willunga Hill became a TDU staple in 2008 and has since become one of the most iconic climbs in Australian cycling, consistently producing exciting racing and GC drama. Past champions include a who's who of Grand Tour winners and classics specialists.
When to tune in
The race is won and lost in the Adelaide Hills. Focus on Corkscrew Road (Stage 2) for early GC moves, then Willunga Hill (Stage 4) for the decisive battle. The prologue gaps can prove crucial - even 10-15 seconds provides valuable buffer for mountain stages. Watch for heat-related tactics and the new circuit finale format on Stage 5.