Tadej Pogacar launches brilliant attack on Alpe d’Huez to win Stage 19 of the Tour de France and extend lead
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Tadej Pogacar executed a remarkable solo attack on the Alpe d’Huez climb to win the 19th stage of the Tour de France, extending his overall lead by over seven minutes.
- Despite riding the final section without teammates, Pogacar caught and surpassed Richard Carapaz and Lenny Martinez in the last 1.5 kilometers, securing his fifth stage win of the race and 26th career Tour stage victory.
- With only two stages remaining, Pogacar is on the verge of becoming one of the few cyclists to win five Tours de France, joining legends like Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault.
- The iconic Alpe d’Huez climb featured intense fan support and challenging conditions, including smoke from flares that reduced visibility, but Pogacar maintained focus throughout.
- Saturday’s upcoming stage includes multiple high-category climbs and presents a strategic choice for Pogacar, who may either defend his lead or attempt another victory on the demanding Alpine route.
