This year’s race offered a route as iconic as the city itself

Starting from the picturesque Marina da Glória, riders were treated to early-morning views of Guanabara Bay bathed in golden light. As the sun rose, casting warm hues across the skyline, participants rode along the legendary shores of Copacabana and Ipanema, cheered on by early risers and curious onlookers. But the real challenge awaited inland, where the peloton faced the demanding climb of Mesa do Imperador, a steep ascent deep in the Tijuca Forest, famously included in the Rio 2016 Olympic road race. Nine years later, the road once again echoed with determination and grit as amateur riders tested their limits on the same legendary slopes. Nature made a surprise appearance the night before, with strong winds knocking down a tree that partially blocked the course. In a display of quick teamwork and coordination, the organization delayed the start by one hour — giving riders the unexpected gift of a peaceful sunrise moment, time to relax, and soak in the magic of the setting.

The forest, drenched in sunlight, offered cool shadows and a dramatic contrast to the shimmering coastline below. Between city and jungle, beach and mountain, this edition of L’Étape Rio was more than a race — it was a celebration of sport, nature, and the unique Brazilian energy that made the event truly unforgettable. Once again, L’Étape Series by Tour de France proved that the soul of the Tour can thrive far from the Champs-Élysées — even under the palms and peaks of Rio.