Djelfa GP   

Like many historically Roman cities in the Maghreb, the Djelfa landscape is remarkable with views on steppe-like high plateaus of the north, or massive sand dunes of the Sahara, whilst the riders can even see some chotts (desert-located salt lakes) throughout the route.

The route itself is a fantastic destination for all-rounder teams of riders that tend to succeed in World Championships; the Grand Prix in itself does...

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Like many historically Roman cities in the Maghreb, the Djelfa landscape is remarkable with views on steppe-like high plateaus of the north, or massive sand dunes of the Sahara, whilst the riders can even see some chotts (desert-located salt lakes) throughout the route.

The route itself is a fantastic destination for all-rounder teams of riders that tend to succeed in World Championships; the Grand Prix in itself doesn't feature any hard climbs or downhills, and the final sprint is often decided by a few seconds due to how 'easy' the race may seem to some more experienced riders. One of the only deciding factors of this race is the need (or not) of a windbreaker, as the Sahara climate tends to be fairly rough to some riders inexperienced with high temperatures and amounts of wind with low humidity.

Historically speaking, however, many riders with less-than-average skills seem to be doing fairly well in such a race, due to quality support coming from their teammates. Riders in their peak age tend to perform very well there as it is often a good way to warm up early in the season to the low level of prestige of this race. Nonetheless, it stays a decent route and a good season opener in the times where it is active.