A Dutchman keeps the superstars in check

The Tour de France is getting more explosive. Dutchman Thymen Arensman secured the stage victory on the toughest stage so far, ahead of Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard.

July 19, 2025

From: dpa/apa

Pogacar and Vingegaard initially refrained from mutual attacks. But then the Dane launched a maneuver that Pogacar easily parried. The exceptional rider and Tour dominator Pogacar then moved ahead of Vingegaard and collected further bonus seconds.

Just 100 kilometers from the finish in Luchon-Superbagnères, which had not been used since 1989 for logistical reasons, the time trial world champion Evenepoel got off his bike ( SportNews reportedHe climbed into the team car completely exhausted. Early on, before the climb to the Col du Tourmalet, he was no longer able to keep up – and fell behind. The 25-year-old reacted with irritation to the camera motorcycle next to him as the highest-category climb led up the legendary road pass at 2115 meters above sea level. The Belgian had already shown considerable difficulty and lost time in the two previous Pyrenees stages.

The top riders are likely to take it easy on Sunday. After the demanding stages in the high mountains, the escape enthusiasts will see their chance on Stage 15. Before the second rest day, 169,3 kilometers await between Muret and the southern French city of Carcassonne. Two third-grade climbs and one moderately difficult second-grade climb invite breakaway groups.