Valloire, France – Tadej Pogacar showcased his dominance in the 2024 Tour de France by clinching victory in the first mountain stage from Pinerolo to Valloire. The UAE Team Emirates rider outperformed defending champion Jonas Vingegaard on the Col du Galibier summit, securing his 12th stage win in the Tour’s history.
Pogacar’s strategic plan and exceptional performance on both climbs and descents propelled him to success in the tough mountain terrain. The Slovenian rider expressed his satisfaction with the execution of his plan, emphasizing the importance of hitting hard on the challenging stage.
With a remarkable display of strength, Pogacar managed to establish a 35-second lead over Vingegaard on the rapid descent to the finish line. Despite the windy conditions and wet roads, Pogacar navigated the course with precision, consolidating his position as the overall leader.
Following the intense stage, Pogacar now holds a 45-second advantage over Remco Evenepoel from Soudal Quick-Step, with Vingegaard trailing by 50 seconds. Despite losing time, Vingegaard remained optimistic, acknowledging the strength of his competitors and expressing confidence in his team’s strategy.
The battle for supremacy in the Tour continues to intensify, with Evenepoel emerging as a formidable challenger to Pogacar. The Belgian rider, although unable to match Pogacar’s pace on the final climb, remains determined to make an impact in the upcoming stages, particularly the time trial.
As the race unfolds, Vingegaard and his team face the challenge of regaining momentum and closing the gap on their rivals. While Pogacar’s dominance is evident, the Tour presents opportunities for unexpected twists and turns, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as the competition unfolds.