Pogačar’s Unforgettable Ride

Tadej Pogačar achieved a significant milestone during the Tour de France on Friday. He shattered Marco Pantani’s long-standing Alpe d’Huez climbing record, completing the route in 35 minutes and 27 seconds. Starting the climb over three minutes behind the breakaway group, Pogačar’s performance was one of cycling’s most remarkable moments.

Early Stage Action

The stage began with a keen battle for the polka dot jersey between Richard Carapaz and Valentin Paret-Peintre. The French cyclist took maximum King of the Mountains (KOM) points on the Col Bayard and Col du Noyer. Mads Pedersen claimed the intermediate sprint, as the breakaway pressed towards Alpe d’Huez, gaining a substantial lead.

Pogačar’s Strategic Move

With more than 12 kilometers remaining of the climb, Pogačar launched a daring attack, narrowing the 3:20 gap to the front. He collaborated briefly with Adam Yates, part of the breakaway, before advancing solo. He reached Richard Carapaz with 1.8 kilometers left, but Pogačar powered ahead with 800 meters to go, setting a historic climbing pace.

Breaking Records at Alpe d’Huez

Pogačar’s ascent was nearly one and a half minutes faster than Pantani’s best. As his competitors watched on, he caught the breakaway leaders with ease. Pogačar, resembling the inevitability of a force of nature, continued to ascend with incredible speed, overcoming illness rumors within his team.

A Memorable Finish

Pogačar embraced teammate Isaac del Toro at the summit, celebrating a significant achievement. His ascent was seven percent faster compared to Remco Evenepoel, the second fastest on the stage. The young French cyclist, Paul Seixas, ninth on the stage, expressed admiration for Pogačar’s feat.

Changes in GC Standings

Lenny Martinez progressed to the top five by being in the breakaway. Mattias Skjelmose and Juan Ayuso slipped, as they struggled on the climb. Remco Evenepoel held his second place with a consistent performance, finishing sixth on the stage.

Strong Performances in the Breakaway

The breakaway riders exhibited determination with Thymen Arensman initially attacking at Alpe d’Huez. However, it was Carapaz who stood out, attacking repeatedly. Pogačar ultimately surpassed the breakaway with a strong surge. Martinez finished a respectable second, with Carapaz coming in third.

Limitations of Crowded Alpe d’Huez

Alpe d’Huez, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, presented challenges due to a massive crowd. Despite efforts to secure the route, including barring famous ‘Dutch Corner,’ the overwhelming number of fans hindered progress.

Stage 19 Results

• 1st: Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) – 3:17:57
• 2nd: Lenny Martinez (Bahrain Victorious) – +6s
• 3rd: Richard Carapaz (EF Education – EasyPost) – +9s

General Classification after Stage 19

• 1st: Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates)
• 2nd: Remco Evenepoel (Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe) – +7m 11s
• 3rd: Isaac Del Toro (UAE Team Emirates) – +9m 42s

Upcoming Stage 20

Saturday’s stage will cover 171 kilometers of mountainous terrain. The peloton will face climbs including Col du Glandon and Col du Télégraphe, before challenging Alpe d’Huez again. With 5,600 meters of ascent, riders will have no room for error.