Today marks an emotional moment in Welsh sport as Geraint Thomas rides the final stage of his professional career on home roads, with the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men concluding between Newport and Cardiff.
Stage six begins outside the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales in Newport at 11:45, before finishing on North Road in Cardiff after 112.2 kilometres of racing. The stage includes the iconic climb of Caerphilly Mountain in the closing kilometres, offering fans the perfect chance to see Thomas in action one last time on Welsh roads.
The race comes after an epic stage five on Saturday, when Olympic road race champion Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step) conquered The Tumble climb in Monmouthshire to secure his first stage win of this year’s event. Despite the fierce competition, all eyes remained firmly fixed on Thomas as supporters lined the roads to celebrate his penultimate day in the saddle.
Speaking after stage five, Thomas admitted it was a day filled with emotion.
“It was really nice. It was quite emotional, actually. First, I just tried to keep the boys at the front, and then when I hit the climb I thought ‘oh my god’, but the crowds were amazing. I saw a lot of faces I recognised, and it was a special day,” he said.
Reflecting on the atmosphere, he added:
“Coming up the climb, it was mad. It felt like every person on there was cheering for me. Which was crazy. I saw a lot of friends and family, and it was a super nice way to finish my penultimate day. One more day… It’s going to be a nice day.”
Stage six promises a fitting send-off for one of Wales’ greatest ever sportsmen, with fans expected to line the streets of both Newport and Cardiff to cheer Thomas on.
Live coverage of the stage will be available in the UK and Ireland on ITV4, ITVX, S4C, and TNT Sports.
