Australia is burning in a scorching summer and even the Santos Tour Down Under is forced to deal with the emergency. Due to the "Extreme" fire danger level in the Lofty Mountains and maximum temperatures predicted to reach 43 degrees, stage 4 scheduled for tomorrow has been modified to ensure the safety of cyclists, staff, and fans.
Main changes:
⏰ EARLY START: 10:10 from Brighton (1 hour earlier)
🏔️ WILLUNGA HILL: Removed from the route
🏁 NEW FINISH: High Street, Willunga
📏 DISTANCE: Modified to 131 km.
Originally, the stage was supposed to be 176 km long and conclude at the top of Willunga Hill, the iconic climb of the race. Organizers have recommended that fans avoid going up to Willunga Hill, protect themselves from the sun, seek shade, stay hydrated, and above all, follow emergency authority messages throughout the day.