Tadej Pogacar, the Slovenian cycling star, showcased his dominance in a thrilling Stage 4 of the Tour de France, reclaiming the coveted yellow jersey. He unleashed a powerful attack near the top of the formidable Col du Galibier, extending his lead during the fast and twisty descent. The climb to the 2,642-meter (8,668-foot) summit marked the first major mountain test of the race, living up to its reputation as a decisive point.
Two-time defending champion Jonas Vingegaard, a formidable rival, put up a valiant effort to limit the damage. However, he finished 37 seconds behind Pogacar, highlighting the Slovenian’s strength and tactical brilliance. The stage also saw previous leader Richard Carapaz lose his hold on the yellow jersey, struggling to keep pace with the leading pack on the Galibier.
With his UAE Team Emirates squad setting a blistering pace up the climb, only Vingegaard and a handful of other riders managed to stay with Pogacar. Then, with 800 meters to the summit, Pogacar launched his decisive attack, creating a 10-second gap over Vingegaard. The descent to the finish presented another opportunity for Pogacar to stretch his lead, as he navigated the twists and turns with greater confidence than the cautious Vingegaard. The latter, who suffered a serious crash in April, breaking his collarbone, ribs and sustaining a collapsed lung, may have been hesitant to take unnecessary risks.
Pogacar, who previously wore the yellow jersey after Stage 2, is now aiming for an historic Giro d’Italia-Tour double. His dominance in the Italian Grand Tour in May, coupled with his previous Tour de France victories in 2020 and 2021, makes him a strong contender for another title. The next few stages will be crucial in deciding the race’s direction. Stage 5 on Wednesday features two fourth-category climbs before a flat finish, which could end in a sprint. Thursday brings another flat stage, followed by the race’s first individual time trial on Friday, where time trial specialists will have the chance to shine. This dynamic stage setup promises continued excitement and thrilling battles for the yellow jersey in the days ahead.
