2024 Tour de France Stage 18 | Highlights

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Victor Campenaerts achieved a career highlight by winning stage 18 of the Tour de France, fulfilling a prediction he made back in December. The Belgian rider, known as “Vocsnor,” showcased his strength and determination on the 18th stage from Gap to Barcelonnette.

Campenaerts made his decisive move on the first climb of the day, the Col du Festre, breaking away with several other riders. As the race progressed, the leading group began to fragment on the Côte de Saint-Apollinaire. With 40 kilometers remaining, only Campenaerts, Mattéo Vercher (TotalEnergies), and Michał Kwiatkowski (INEOS Grenadiers) remained in contention.

Reflecting on his victory, Campenaerts said, “I knew this was my only option to win a stage, I was already focused on it before the season began. Riding in a breakaway with Kwiatkowski is an honor in itself, but we worked very well together, the three of us.”

Campenaerts’ preparation and determination paid off as he managed to keep his breakaway companions behind, crossing the finish line first. He expressed his joy, saying, “A true pro must ride the Tour de France, finish the Tour de France, and win a stage in the Tour de France. That is everyone’s dream, and now, here in Barcelonnette, I can make it come true. It’s unbelievable.”

Campenaerts also shared the personal challenges he faced leading up to the Tour, including a high-altitude training camp and the birth of his son. Despite these challenges, he remained focused and motivated, ultimately achieving his goal.

“This is the highlight of my career, and I’m very happy to share it with this team. A young team, with little experience. But we are showing ourselves here. The atmosphere within the team is fantastic, and you can be sure that we are going to celebrate tonight,” Campenaerts added.

Campenaerts’ victory is a testament to his resilience and dedication, marking a memorable moment in his career and for his team.

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