Wout van Aert claimed a memorable stage victory on the Champs-Élysées, but Tadej Pogacar confirmed his fourth Tour de France title after a dramatic finale in Paris. The stage, held in heavy rain, saw the peloton neutralise general classification times to avoid risks, yet Pogacar still launched an attack on the Montmartre climb.
Van Aert, riding for Visma–Lease a Bike, powered away on the cobbled ascent and held off the chasing pack to win what many described as a stage for the ages. 'Wout was incredibly strong at the top of the climb and he deserves this big, big win,' said Pogacar after the finish. The Slovenian crossed the line moments later, raising his fist in celebration of his fourth Tour crown.
Jonas Vingegaard finished second overall, while Oscar Onley became the youngest Briton to place in the Tour's top 10, securing fourth. Geraint Thomas crossed the finish line for the final time in his career, drawing applause from fans. Ben Healy won the combativity award after two stage wins and a stint in yellow.
Pogacar, now a four-time winner, reflected on the race: 'I’m super happy that it’s over, but I enjoyed the whole Tour. I will miss it next week. It was a pleasure to wear this yellow jersey.' He added that he plans to take a week off before deciding on his next goals.
The stage also featured a second spectacular finish earlier in the day, as Mavi García, the oldest rider in the Tour de France Femmes, attacked solo to win stage 2. The 41-year-old clung on in the closing kilometres to secure a dramatic victory.
