Pogacar avenges 2024 defeat with commanding Tour de France stage win at Le Lioran

Slovenia's Tadej Pogacar delivered a dominant performance to win the 10th stage of the Tour de France at Le Lioran, exacting revenge for his defeat at the same venue two years prior.

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Remember two years ago, you were angry.

In a powerful solo effort, Pogacar broke away with 16 kilometers left in the stage. He crossed the finish line approximately 30 seconds clear of his nearest competitors, while his main rival, Jonas Vingegaard, finished seventh, 44 seconds behind.

This victory marks Pogacar's third stage win in the current Tour de France and the 24th of his illustrious career. The win also solidifies his position at the top of the general classification standings.

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We targeted this stage from a long time ago. I also had this in my mind. Two years ago I came second here, it's not a bad result, obviously against Jonas (Vingegaard).

Reflecting on the win, the four-time Tour de France champion specifically referenced his second-place finish behind Vingegaard at Le Lioran in 2024. "We targeted this stage from a long time ago," Pogacar stated. "I also had this in my mind. Two years ago I came second here, it's not a bad result, obviously against Jonas (Vingegaard)."

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But today, Tadej (Pogacar) won again, this is good for morale.

UAE Team Emirates-XRG strategically controlled the race early on to set up Pogacar's decisive attack. His emphatic win not only boosted his morale but also that of his team. "Today, Tadej (Pogacar) won again, this is good for morale," said UAE sports director Andrej Hauptman. Vingegaard, the two-time Tour winner, expressed optimism, stating, "My legs are getting better and better, and I'm looking forward to longer climbs."

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My legs are getting better and better, and I'm looking forward to longer climbs.