Tadej Pogačar secured his fifth career Tour de France title after dominating the 3,245-kilometer race from Barcelona to Paris, cementing his status alongside cycling’s legendary multi-champions. According to race reports and official standings, the Slovenian rider finished over six minutes ahead of runner-up Remco Evenepoel, while Mathieu van der Poel claimed victory in the final stage’s Montmartre climb.
A Historic Fifth Crown in Paris
The final stage of the 3245-kilometer race required a route alteration due to heavy wildfires near Bordeaux, which forced the French interior ministry to reallocate security personnel. Consequently, the start line in Thoiry was canceled, shortening the stage to 88.7 kilometers entirely within Paris, with race times frozen before the Montmartre ascents to ensure safety. Despite the adjustments, Pogačar celebrated his fifth overall victory, joining an elite group of five-time Tour champions that includes Eddy Merckx, Jacques Anquetil, Bernard Hinault, and Miguel Indurain.
Climbing Records and Stage Dominance
Pogačar collected five stage wins during the three-week event, bringing his career Tour stage total to 26 victories. His performance on the 13.8-kilometer ascent to Alpe d’Huez broke Marco Pantani’s 31-year-old climbing record, completing the 21 famous switchbacks in 35 minutes and 26 seconds at an average speed exceeding 23 km/h. Team manager Mauro Gianetti praised the champion’s global appeal, telling reporters that Pogačar carries the charisma and aura of tennis star Roger Federer.
Looking Ahead and Recovery Updates
Cycling icon Eddy Merckx told the Gazzetta dello Sport that he expects Pogačar to eventually surpass the all-time Tour de France victory records if he maintains his current trajectory. Meanwhile, climber Florian Lipowitz continues his recovery at home following a broken collarbone sustained during an individual time trial crash. National coach Jens Zemke stated to dpa that Lipowitz remains a realistic contender to return for the upcoming World Championships once fully healed from rib and respiratory injuries.
Worth a look
