Vine Takes the Tour Down Under, and the pelotons are ready for Geelong

STIRLING, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 25: (L-R) Tobias Lund Andresen of Denmark and Decathlon CMA CGM Team - Blue Sprint Jersey, Andrea Raccagni Noviero of Italy and Team Soudal Quick-Step - White Best Young Rider Jersey, Jay Vine of Australia and UAE Team Emirates - Orange Santos Leader's Jersey and Martin Urianstad Bugge of Norway and Team Uno-X Mobility - Polka Dot Mountain Jersey celebrate at podium after the 26th Santos Tour Down Under 2026, Stage 5 a 169.8km stage from Stirling to Stirling / #UCIWT / on January 25, 2026 in Stirling, Australia. (Photo by Con Chronis/Getty Images)

Victory, wildlife, and the fight for early-season glory: Christophe, Grace and Macka unpack a Tour Down Under full of twists.


In the latest SBS Cycling Podcast, Christophe Mallet is joined by Grace and Macka to unpack a vibrant Tour Down Under, starting with the buzz and intensity of a packed week in Adelaide. Grace paints the scene from the ground, setting the tone for a race that once again lived up to its reputation as a tough and lively season opener.

The discussion quickly turns to the standout performance of Jay Vine, whose victory is framed as a mix of patience, sharp tactics, and sheer determination. The trio also reflects on how quickly races can turn, with unexpected moments... Cue the now infamous kangaroo incident, a very Australian reminder that wildlife can be as unpredictable as breakaways.

Looking ahead, the hosts focus on the upcoming races in Geelong and why early season results matter. Beyond confidence boosts, these wins are crucial for UCI points and team momentum. The episode closes with thoughts on leadership, teamwork, and the shared culture of the peloton, blending insight, humour, and lived experience.


Share

SBS Sport Newsletter

Sign up now for the latest sport news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Download our apps
SBS On Demand
SBS Audio

Listen to our podcasts
The SBS Cycling Podcast is a punchy podcast covering the world of professional cycling, coming to you during the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España.
Get the latest with our sport podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS Sport
Sport News

Sport News

News from around the sporting world