Pogacar Extends Dominance with Stage Fifteen Triumph at Tour de France
Slovenian rider secures commanding win on Bastille Day, widening lead over main rival
Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar furthered his grip on the yellow jersey by winning a dramatic Stage Fifteen of the Tour de France on Bastille Day.
Completing the nearly two‑hundred‑kilometre route from Loudenvielle to the Plateau de Beille, Pogacar launched a decisive seated attack five kilometres from the summit, distancing his closest rival and reigning champion Jonas Vingegaard by more than one minute .
This marked Pogacar’s third stage win of this year’s race and seventh in the Pyrenees, reinforcing his reputation as a climbing specialist .
The move not only earned him the stage but also stretched his lead in the general classification beyond three minutes, leaving little room for challengers .
The stage featured four significant climbs culminating in the hors catégorie ascent to Plateau de Beille.
Vingegaard attempted an early attack with ten kilometres remaining but could not shake Pogacar, who countered and surged ahead around the five‑kilometre mark .
Cycling analysts recognised the climb as one of the most intense in recent memory, noting both riders delivered performances among the best ever recorded on the Plateau de Beille .
With only six stages remaining before Paris, Pogacar’s blend of endurance, climbing strength and tactical acumen has placed him in a commanding position.
Across the race, his team has provided effective support, particularly during the Pyrenean mountain stages .