In front of hundreds of thousands of roadside spectators, Tadej Pogačar delivered another dominant performance on Friday, July 24, at the Tour de France, capturing the stage victory atop Alpe d’Huez while shattering the historical climbing record for the legendary Alpine ascent. According to race reports from the venue, the Slovenian star once again proved untouchable on the punishing 21 hairpin turns, widening his command over the field as the race approached its decisive final weekend.
While Pogačar celebrated his staggering triumph at the summit finish, young French rider Lenny Seixas endured a difficult day in the high mountains. Seixas struggled to match the fierce pace set by the general classification contenders, ultimately losing crucial time in the grueling battle for a podium finish in Paris. The grueling ascent of Alpe d’Huez—spanning 13.8 kilometers at an average gradient of 8.1%—exacted a heavy toll on the peloton as temperatures soared in the Alps.
For cycling fans tracking the Tour de France standings, the stage reshaped the lower rungs of the top ten while cementing Pogačar’s status at the summit of the sport. Race organizers and timekeepers confirmed that the Slovenian’s blistering ascent eclipsed the previous benchmark up the iconic climb, sending shockwaves through the cycling world. Spectators packed the roadside by the hundreds of thousands, creating a wall of noise that accompanied the yellow jersey favorite through every steep ramp.
The race continues Saturday with another demanding mountain stage in the Alps before the traditional procession to the Champs-Élysées. Cycling enthusiasts and fans can follow official race updates, live timing, and stage results through the official Tour de France website.
