Pogacar Wins Alpe d'Huez Stage, Nears Fifth Tour de France Title

Tadej Pogacar is on the cusp of a historic fifth Tour de France victory after a dominant performance on stage 19, culminating in a win on the iconic Alpe d'Huez. The UAE Team Emirates-XRG rider now holds a commanding seven-minute and 11-second lead over Belgium's Remco Evenepoel. Pogacar's time on the final climb shattered the previous record, showcasing his exceptional form. He is aiming to join cycling legends Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, and Miguel Indurain as a five-time winner of the prestigious race. Pogacar's teammate Isaac del Toro remains in third place overall and leads the young rider classification. The stage featured a large breakaway group that the peloton gradually reeled in, but Pogacar ultimately proved unstoppable on the legendary climb, cheered on by thousands of spectators. He credited his team, particularly Felix Grosschartner and Adam Yates, for their crucial support in setting up his decisive attack.

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It was very cool to win up here - it was a crazy atmosphere all climb and I'm thankful for the team that I it could pull it off.