Tadej Pogacar has solidified his reputation as one of cycling’s elite by securing his fifth Tour de France title. The 27-year-old Slovenian showcased his prowess with daring mountain moves, multiple stage victories, and a composed demeanor, cementing his place alongside legends like Eddy Merckx, Miguel Indurain, Jacques Anquetil, and Bernard Hinault.
Pogacar expressed his disbelief and joy, stating, “I’m speechless. It’s an incredible day, there was an incredible atmosphere.”
In the exciting final stage in Paris, Pogacar finished 6 minutes and 26 seconds ahead of Belgian cyclist Remco Evenepoel. His main opponent, Jonas Vingegaard, faced a setback by crashing out during the 15th stage. Pogacar expressed hope for another competition next year, saying, “Shame that Jonas and others crashed out of this Tour. I hope we can all fight again next year.”
Joining Pogacar on the podium was his UAE Team Emirates XRG teammate, Isaac Del Toro, who made an impressive debut at third place. The Mexican rider finished 9 minutes and 42 seconds behind Pogacar. The team celebrated together on the Champs-Élysées, with Pogacar holding up his hand to signify his five victories.
Pogacar reflected on his success, “I don’t know how I do it,” and added, “I now have to find a new goal to chase.”
Although Pogacar won the Giro d’Italia in 2024, he has yet to triumph in the Spanish Vuelta. He remained noncommittal about participating, saying, “Will I be at La Vuelta in a few weeks? Let’s see.”
Peerless Pogacar
Throughout the race, Pogacar claimed victories in five stages, bringing his career total to 26. During the final stage, Dutchman Mathieu van der Poel clinched the victory, holding off challengers in the final stretch. The stage loop around Paris was more dynamic than previous years, featuring a climb through the Montmartre district. This challenging ascent proved tough even for Pogacar.
Van der Poel remarked after his win, “I thought the sprinters would catch us up so I launched (my attack) from very far away.”
Van der Poel’s victory saw him narrowly edge out Belgian Jasper Philipsen and green jersey winner Mads Pedersen.
Cycling Pedigree
Van der Poel is regarded as one of the premier cyclists globally, with numerous accolades in one-day classics and Cyclo-cross world championships. His family pedigree is distinguished, as his father, Adri, won two Tour stages, and his grandfather, Raymond Poulidor, was a beloved French cyclist.
Women’s Tour
The women’s Tour, comprising nine stages, kicks off in Lausanne, Switzerland, on August 1 and concludes in Nice on August 9. Frenchwoman Pauline Ferrand-Prévôt, last year’s champion, will be among those to watch.
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