Biniam Girmay made history in the Tour de France by becoming the first Eritrean to win a stage in the Grande Boucle. The 24-year-old rider from Intermarché-Wanty secured his victory in Turin after a dramatic sprint finish that saw a heavy fall involving several riders, including Jasper Philipsen, the outgoing green jersey favorite. Girmay's triumph adds to his impressive record, having also won a stage at the Giro d'Italia in 2022. Fernando Gaviria and Arnaud De Lie completed the podium, while Bryan Coquard was the highest-placed Frenchman, finishing in 10th place.
The general classification saw a significant shift as Richard Carapaz from EF Education-EasyPost donned the yellow jersey, taking the lead from Tadej Pogacar. Carapaz, who finished 14th in the stage, will face a challenging task in defending his lead as the race heads into the Alpine stages. The Col du Galibier's steep slopes will test the 31-year-old Ecuadorian, who had to withdraw from last year's Tour due to a fall in the first stage.
Fabien Grellier of TotalEnergies made a bold move by launching an attack 66 kilometers from the finish line. Although his attempt was ultimately unsuccessful, Grellier's effort earned him the title of the most combative rider of the day. His sports director revealed that Grellier's primary objective was to enjoy the race, a goal he achieved by animating the third stage and receiving a well-deserved kiss from the hostess on the podium.
The peloton took a more relaxed approach during this stage, likely conserving energy for the upcoming Alpine challenges. The race saw a slow pace, with riders spending a quiet day in the pack. It wasn't until 164 kilometers into the stage that Grellier made his move, though he was unable to gain more than a minute's lead. The calm atmosphere served as a brief respite before the grueling climbs of the Col du Galibier.
Mark Cavendish of the Astana team had a tough day, finishing in 113th place. The 39-year-old sprinter faced multiple setbacks, including punctures of both his front and rear wheels. Frustrated, Cavendish was seen making angry gestures towards a cameraman. Despite his struggles, Cavendish remains determined to secure his 35th stage win in the Tour de France, demonstrating patience and resilience.
- The third stage of the Tour de France, spanning from Plaisance to Turin, concluded with an intense sprint finish. Biniam Girmay's victory not only marked his first win in the Tour but also a historic moment for Eritrea.
- Richard Carapaz's ascension to the yellow jersey signifies a major shift in the general classification. Carapaz, who had to abandon last year's Tour due to a fall, now faces the challenge of defending his lead in the upcoming Alpine stages.
- Fabien Grellier's attack, though ultimately unsuccessful, showcased his determination and earned him recognition as the most combative rider of the day. His effort added excitement to an otherwise calm stage.
- The peloton's relaxed pace during this stage indicates a strategic conservation of energy for the demanding climbs ahead. Riders are preparing for the significant challenges posed by the Alpine stages, particularly the Col du Galibier.
- Mark Cavendish's difficulties highlight the unpredictable nature of the Tour de France. Despite multiple setbacks, Cavendish's persistence underscores the resilience required to compete at this level.
