The second stage of the Tour de France's Grand Départ in Catalonia has been shortened by 16 kilometres, with cyclists now avoiding the Collserola area due to an African swine fever outbreak. This change, announced two days after the high-risk zone was confirmed, alters the route from Molins de Rei directly to Barcelona via Plaça Espanya.
This new proposal, requested by the Generalitat of Catalonia because of the swine fever outbreak, was agreed with the Tour de France organisers. The main goal is to keep the race away from natural environments while still allowing spectators along the route.
At kilometre 123, once cyclists reach Molins de Rei, the second stage will continue along the N-340 road to Plaça Espanya, rejoining the original route. This adjustment reduces the stage's total distance from the initial 182.4 kilometres to a final 168.4 kilometres.
Route Changes and Local Impact
While the Tour will now pass through Sant Feliu de Llobregat, Sant Just Desvern, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, and Esplugues de Llobregat, it will no longer go through Vallvidrera and Tibidabo, nor a significant part of Barcelona's original route. Instead, it will travel along Carretera de Sants and, from Plaça Espanya, begin the three ascents to Montjuïc Castle.
This is not the first time a section of a Tour de France stage has been changed due to a health crisis. Last year, a modification was made in the Alps region because of lumpy skin disease, according to officials.
The revised route aims to minimise any potential spread of the disease while maintaining the integrity of the race for both competitors and fans. Further details on spectator access points and transport implications for residents in the affected areas are expected from local authorities in the coming weeks.
