2024 Tour de France Stage 4 | Highlights

Report

In a breathtaking display of power and precision, Tadej Pogačar soared to victory on the slopes of the Galibier, clinching both the stage win and the coveted yellow jersey in the 2024 Tour de France.

Stage 4, a challenging 139.6 km ride from Pinerolo to Valloire, featuring the ascents of Sestriere, Montgenevre, and the formidable Galibier, set the scene for Pogačar’s masterclass. The UAE Team Emirates, with a concerted effort led by Almeida, Yates, and Ayuso, dictated the tempo on the 22.9 km climb at 5.1%, peaking 19.5 km before the finish line, effectively whittling down the group of contenders.

As the summit approached, it was Pogačar who launched an explosive attack in the final 800 meters. Only Jonas Vingegaard of Visma-Lease a bike could initially keep pace, but even he succumbed 300 meters later, trailing by 13 seconds at the climb’s crest.

The descent to Valloire was where Pogačar truly shone, navigating the route flawlessly and extending his lead. Vingegaard, caught by the chase group of Remco Evenepoel, Juan Ayuso, and Primoz Roglic, could only watch as Pogačar solidified his position at the top.

Now leading the general classification by 45 seconds over Evenepoel and 50 seconds over Vingegaard, with Ayuso in fourth at 1’10″, Pogačar has firmly stamped his authority on the race.

Reflecting on his triumph, Pogačar said, “I’m super happy. It was like a dream stage, and finishing it off solo was very special. I wanted to hit hard today, as I was confident I could win and put some seconds on my rivals. The gaps I created are good news for me. I can be happy with the position and the shape I am in right now.”

With this victory, Pogačar not only celebrates his first stage success in this year’s Tour but also marks his 12th career win in the Grand Boucle, signaling a dominant presence in the race and a promising outlook for the weeks ahead.

Results

Results powered by FirstCycling.com