He attacked two kilometres from the top of the final climb of the Col du Haag, before increasing his advantage across the 6km plateau into the finish at the Nordic ski station of Le Markstein Fellering, where he also won back in 2023. He finished 38 seconds clear of his team-mate Isaac Del Toro and France’s Paul Seixas to boost his overall lead to 4½ minutes on Vingegaard. His fifth win of his race moved him another big step towards a record-equalling fifth Tour victory.
“Thanks to all of the fans who came out to the Tour today,” said Pogacar, who was booed by some when he took victory at Le Lioran last Tuesday. “Seeing all the cars on the hills was incredible. I’ve never seen anything like it before… I knew the last kilometres of the climb really well and seeing all the crowds gives you an additional boost. I had good feelings today and I grabbed the opportunity.”
Thrilled by Pogacar, most of the fans went berserk when Seixas joined Vingegaard in the pursuit behind the yellow jersey. While Del Toro outsprinted the pair for second place at the line, Seixas gained enough time in finishing third to take fourth place overall and the white jersey of best young rider from Juan Ayuso. His deficit to Remco Evenepoel in third place has been reduced to just 15 seconds.
“Paul Seixas is a champion, a very good leader,” said Pogacar, who was quick to embrace the Frenchman at the finish. “He has a strong team that works well for him. The crowd loves him; he is France’s next great prospect. Protect him, and he will shine!”