Bretagne Classic 2020 – Preview
By David Hunter
Plouay – Plouay 249km
Plouay, but not as we know it. The organisers have changed much of the route, including the lap circuit at the end. I’m not sure of the exact reason, but as this is getting used for the Euros too, I imagine it’s to do with issues in closing some roads. What we’re left with is a much easier edition of this race, something that will prick the ears of the fast men. I’m sure they’ll be delighted to hear that the tough climb of Ty Marrec is gone, replaced by something considerably easier.
Climbs
Côte de Bon Repos is the start of the finale for me. It might be 80km from home, but 1.9km at 7.3% is a good opportunity to put domestiques into difficulty, especially with the opening kilometre averaging 9%.
The next tough moment is during the climb of Botgoët, which contains 800m at 8.4%.
The climb of Kerhoat also contains a steep section, this time it’s 900m at 8.6%, which is nice and steep and with just over 20km to go can be a very important point in the race.
We are now on the final circuit, and the riders have to tackle the climb of Restergai on two occasions, but it is fairly easy. The final ascent crests with just 2km remaining.
Just beyond the finishing line is the climb of Lézot, which you will remember from previous editions. 1km at 5.2% isn’t hard by professional standards, but it does offer a launchpad to those wishing to attack.
Tactics
Despite being a long way from home, I think the first selection will be made on Côte de Bon Repos. With fewer climbs near the finish, the puncheurs will need the earlier section of the race ridden hard. Once the softening up exercise has been complete, the climbs of Botgoët and Kerhoat will be the decisive moments in the race. This is where the fast men need to be dropped, otherwise it will be a sprint finish. Both climbs have sections that are hard enough for attacks to stick, but it will depend on which teams are left chasing.
The new circuit is easier than the old one, but the roads are very narrow. This is great news for those wanting to attack and escape the peloton, out of sight is out of mind.
At 249km in length, it’s a long day in the saddle. This year’s route is easier, with less climbing, but the length of the race means it will always be selective. Throw in some steep climbs and there’s enough to attract the puncheurs.
Weather
Not very warm, and there is a risk of rain, but the big problem will be the wind. We are set for gusts of 50km/h, coming from the west. Before you get excited I’ll give you the bad news, most of the route is sheltered from the wind. It might be possible to split the race, but it won’t be easy.
Contenders
Michael Matthews – the Aussie left a fair part of himself on the Poggio, quite literally. The crash led to him miss his next race, so his current condition is unknown. What I do know is that the route is very good for him, he climbs better than all sprinters. If he is close to his best, he’ll be a very hard man to beat.
Andrea Vendrame – he’s been showing some positive signs in recent races, but still hasn’t managed to make the podium. The Italian was a great signing by AG2R, not only can he climb very well but he also packs a fast sprint. Having these qualities makes him ideal for most one-day races, this one included. AG2R don’t have the strongest team, but Vendrame shouldn’t be underestimated.
Sep Vanmarcke – the defending champion is back, but he’ll be disappointed the route is easier. This is his first race since lockdown, which puts him at a disadvantage compared to his rivals. It’s impossible to predict how he’ll get on, but I sense he’ll be undercooked compared to others.
Luca Mezgec – the Slovenian would love a good result with the Tour de France just days away. As he continues to work on his climbing, races like this become big targets. He will hope for a tough race, one that is too hot for most fast men, but he’ll be confident of surviving. One thing to note, he’s never won a World Tour one day race.
Florian Sénéchal – this season has seen him rise through the ranks at QuickStep, he’s now trusted by his bosses. The Frenchman is amazing on cobbles, but I just don’t think this type of race suits him. He does have a fast sprint, but I can’t see him winning. As usual, QuickStep don’t just have one option, they also have Remi Cavagna at this race. After recently winning the French TT title, and finishing 2nd in the Euro TT race, he’ll be full of confidence. Give him an inch and he’ll take a mile.
Rui Costa – current form is good, he looked impressive in Tour du Limousin. UAE arrive with a strong squad for this event, they also have Gaviria and Philipsen as potential cards to play. Having attacking and sprint options does give them the upper hand compared to most squads, but can their Portuguese star deliver the win?
Alex Aranburu – his move to Astana has definitely been a success. Similar to Vendrame, he climbs well and has a fast sprint. His first win for the team has not arrived yet, but I can’t help feeling he won’t have to wait too much longer. He’s not your normal one-day rider, I think stage races suit him better, but he should still be challenging in this race.
Loïc Vliegen – looked good in Wallonie, but wasn’t able to take a win. The Belgian should enjoy a race like this, but Wanty rarely win World Tour races. Going up against the big teams is always a challenge, but the main problem stopping a team like Wanty is a lack of support riders deep into the race. Vliegen would need to have a sensational day to take the win.
Prediction Time
UAE have the strength in depth required to make this a tough race, but one man looms large when I look at the start list. This should be a win for Michael Matthews, as long as he’s recovered from his incident on the Poggio.
David HunterFollow us on Twitter and InstagramJoin us on facebook: Ciclismo Internacional
Copyright © 2012-2020 Ciclismo Internacional. All Rights Reserved
