Del Toro raises Mexican flag high at Tour de France with debut stage win

Isaac del Toro, at 23, has etched his name in Tour de France history, securing a victory on the second stage of his debut and bringing the Mexican flag back to the prestigious race for the first time in 26 years. The cyclist from Ensenada crossed the finish line atop Montjuic in Barcelona, a legendary cycling venue, to claim the win.

"The truth is it's a very beautiful feeling, it's one of those things we all work for and are looking for our whole lives. It's a dream come true," Del Toro said, visibly emotional. He expressed pride in elevating cycling's profile in Mexico, a country currently captivated by football, especially with the upcoming World Cup.

Del Toro noted that cycling is gaining popularity in Mexico. He hopes his victory, and potential team success, will further boost the sport. The cyclist, initially a key support rider for Tadej Pogacar's fifth title bid, unexpectedly seized the stage win. Pogacar, aiming for his own victory after a strong team time trial, ceded the spotlight to Del Toro in the final stretch.

Despite a mid-race puncture that caused him to briefly drop from the peloton, Del Toro managed to rejoin the main group. He described the moment as "panic" but ultimately a "blessing." He credited Pogacar's leadership for fostering a high level of performance within the team, stating, "Thanks to him, this sport has changed; he helps us all be better." Del Toro also leads the points classification (green jersey) and the best young rider classification (white jersey).