The lack of the encouragement to attempt such monumental efforts, and the defeatist attitude which you describe is the exact reason why sporting events, particularly cycling GTs are becoming increasingly dull.
Because 20 days of riding over thousands of miles over Europe’s biggest mountains is just too relaxed... everyone watches GTs knowing stage 20 is the final stage.
If you want to watch a crit on the Sunday you can do. Up to the viewers.
The lack of the encouragement to attempt such monumental efforts, and the defeatist attitude which you describe is the exact reason why sporting events, particularly cycling GTs are becoming increasingly dull.