Carapaz conquers Galibier, secures King of the Mountains jersey

Ecuadorian cyclist Richard Carapaz has officially claimed the King of the Mountains jersey at the Tour de France, marking his second victory in this classification. The 33-year-old rider secured the necessary points by leading over the legendary Col du Galibier, the highest point of the race.

Carapaz, who also won the mountains classification in 2024, demonstrated strong form throughout the Alpine stages. He achieved his second stage victory of the tour in Orcières-Merlette, adding to his previous win in Super Devouly. His consistent attacking efforts to gain points in the mountain climbs have distanced him from competitors like Valentin Paret Peintre and even Tadej Pogacar.

In the stage concluding at Alpe d'Huez, Carapaz held a slim lead in the mountains classification. However, his decisive move on Saturday, cresting the Croix de Fer, Télégraphe, and Galibier passes first, extended his lead significantly. With 42 points separating him from second-place Paret Peintre and only 24 points remaining, Carapaz has mathematically secured the jersey.

Carapaz's performance has exceeded initial expectations. Having entered the Tour with ambitions for a stage win and the mountains jersey, his efforts have unexpectedly propelled him to provisional eighth place in the general classification. This achievement adds to his impressive cycling resume, which includes a Giro d'Italia win and podium finishes in other Grand Tours.