Tour de France: Stage 19 heads to Alpe d'Huez with Pogacar in yellow

The Tour de France enters a decisive phase with its 19th stage, a demanding 128-kilometer route from Gap to the iconic Alpe d'Huez. Cyclists will face substantial challenges, including an initial climb to the Col Bayard and the formidable Col du Noyer, promising a day of intense competition.

Tadej Pogacar continues to lead the general classification, holding onto the yellow jersey. His team, UAE Emirates, however, is experiencing some difficulties. Brandon McNulty became the first rider from the team to withdraw from the race after Stage 18 due to exhaustion, raising concerns about the team's overall strength in the final week.

In the previous stage, Stage 18, Richard Carapaz secured a notable victory at Orcières Merlette. He launched a decisive attack on the final climb, distancing his rivals, including Valentin Paret-Peintre. This win marks Carapaz's second stage victory in this year's Tour de France.

As the race progresses, the focus remains on the climbers and GC contenders who will battle it out on the steep ascents leading to Alpe d'Huez. The stage profile suggests a significant opportunity for riders to gain or lose time, potentially reshaping the overall standings.