Rain-slicked streets could not stop Tadej Pogacar from adding a fourth yellow jersey to his collection at the Tour de France. Even though the final stage on Sunday was neutralized 50 km from the finish for safety, the 26-year-old Slovenian launched a bold uphill attack on the cobbled Montmartre climbs.
With the finish line in sight and victory in hand, most riders would have coasted home. Not Pogacar. He set a blistering pace across three ascents of the 1.1-km Montmartre Hill, charging through the rain-soaked Rue Lepic as fans cheered from windows and balconies.
Only five riders clung to his wheel before Belgian all-rounder Wout van Aert sprinted clear on the steepest section to claim the stage win on the Champs-Elysees. Pogacar crossed fourth on the day, 19 seconds back, but safely secured the yellow jersey.
"Just speechless to win this Tour de France," Pogacar said. "This one feels especially amazing. Just super proud I can wear this yellow jersey."
In the overall standings, two-time former Tour winner Jonas Vingegaard finished 4 minutes 24 seconds behind Pogacar, with Florian Lipowitz 11 minutes adrift in third. The audacious finale by Pogacar cements his place among cycling greats and sets a new benchmark for future champions.
Reference(s):
Pogacar shows unrivaled audacity to claim fourth Tour de France title
cgtn.com
