Victor Campenaerts Triumphs in Tour de France Stage 18
Like yesterday, the breakaway went to the end and Victor Campenaerts (Lotto Dstny) raised his arms for the first time in the Tour de France during this 18th stage. The group of leaders remained calmer, and no changes were noted in the top 10 of the general classification, still dominated by Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates). First Frenchman, Guillaume Martin (Cofidis) moves up to 13th place.
General and Ancillary Rankings Remain Steady
The top 3 of the other ancillary rankings have not changed either. The Yellow Jersey also dominates the mountain classification. Biniam Girmay (Intermarché - Wanty) keeps his Green Jersey, while Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step) remains in the White Jersey. The general ranking remains as follows: 1. Tadej Pogacar (SLO/UAE Team Emirates) in 74h 45′ 27′’, 2. Jonas Vingegaard (DAN/Visma – Lease a bike) at 3′11′’, 3. Remco Evenepoel (BEL/Soudal Quick-Step) at 5′09′’.
Lance Armstrong Criticizes Tadej Pogacar's Aggressive Tactics
In the podcast The Move, the fallen winner of the Tour de France Lance Armstrong said he did not appreciate the attitude of Tadej Pogacar and his repeated attacks on the 17th stage. "It was not necessary. Believe my experience: the Tour is not just a sporting competition, it is also a political event. There was no need for him to attack, other than to attract even more attention and speculation. By doing this, he is not going to make any friends, both in the peloton and in the press. I would advise him to keep a low profile and take care of his image. When I saw his attack, I said to myself: 'oh no, that's not necessary. You won the Tour, it's over'. He didn't need to do that."
- The Tour de France continues to be a thrilling event, with each stage bringing new surprises and intense competition. Victor Campenaerts' victory in Stage 18 is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the race.
- Despite the excitement, the general classification remains largely unchanged, with Tadej Pogacar maintaining his lead. His dominance in both the general and mountain classifications showcases his exceptional talent and strategic prowess.
- Lance Armstrong's comments on Pogacar's tactics highlight the complex nature of the Tour de France, where strategy and image play crucial roles alongside physical performance. Armstrong's advice to Pogacar to maintain a low profile underscores the importance of political acumen in the world of professional cycling.
