Tour de France: Philipsen delivers, French still winless, Yates suffers on stage 17

Belgian rider Jasper Philipsen finally claimed his stage victory at the Tour de France, winning the 17th stage in a decisive sprint finish. This marks his eleventh career win in the Grand Boucle, achieved after a strong lead-out from his teammate Mathieu van der Poel. Philipsen's victory also intensifies the competition for the green jersey, as he closes the gap on leader Mads Pedersen.

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Jasper Philipsen has waited for the 17th stage to finally raise his arms in this 113th edition.

The stage, a transition day before the challenging Alpine climbs, proved to be unexpectedly dramatic. It featured a series of attacks and counter-attacks throughout the day, keeping the peloton on edge. Riders like Jasper Stuyven made bold attempts to break away, showcasing the unpredictable nature of these transitional stages that often turn into "fireworks."

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A scenario crazy, crazy, crazy. Attacks everywhere, regroupings, counter-attacks all day long.

Despite the excitement for Philipsen, the stage was marked by disappointment for French cycling, which has yet to secure a stage win. With only four days left, the possibility of a repeat of editions in 1926 and 1999, where no French riders won a stage, looms large. Meanwhile, British rider Adam Yates, a contender in last year's Tour, endured a difficult day, suffering from illness and losing significant time, casting doubt on his participation in the upcoming mountain stages.

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Seventeen stages and still no Frenchman with his arms raised at the finish line.