'There could be some very big explosions' – Juan Ayuso predicts carnage in Tour de France

Juan Ayuso, competing for Lidl-Trek, predicted significant shifts in the general classification (GC) as the Tour de France heads into the Alps. He emphasized the potential for dramatic changes, stating, "There could be some very big explosions" in reference to the stage battles expected in the mountainous terrain.

As the race progresses, both Ayuso and his teammate, Mattias Skjelmose, remained in contention for podium finishes, the white jersey for best young rider, and the team prize with the race entering its final stages. Currently, Ayuso holds fifth place overall, trailing 2:31 behind Isaac del Toro, who ranks third, and is 2:11 behind Paul Seixas in second. Skjelmose, meanwhile, is positioned in sixth place, 52 seconds away from making it onto the podium.

Despite recent setbacks, including losses during the stage to the Plateau de Solaison and the stage 16 time trial, Ayuso remains optimistic. "Both Skjelmose and I are in a position where we can't go much further backwards, and if it happens, well, it wouldn't be a tragedy," Ayuso noted in an interview. With the climax of the Tour looming, he anticipates fierce competition as he aims to secure a finish among the top riders.