Today’s stage of the race featured key events including a potential dig by Pogacar for a stage win with 6km to go. Almeida drove the peloton, Kelderman was caught and assisted teammates. Carapaz tried for a stage win at 6.5km, while Landa set the pace. The gap to the peloton was around 2’24”, with riders losing contact.
As the race continued, at 9km to go, the gap closed to below two minutes with Quickstep leading the pace. At 12km to go, the gap to the peloton was 2’40” with Pogacar looking calm. Carapaz and Mas went away together, dropping Soler. The breakaway group called for provisions as they descended towards the final climb.
Carapaz claimed the King of the Mountains jersey with 37km to go. The peloton felt the burn with stragglers being eaten up. The sprint stages seemed like a distant memory, as the green jersey group was over 14 minutes down. Pogacar maintained a four-minute gap at 45km to go.
At 50km to go, the peloton approached Champoussin. The breakaway riders prepared for the intermediate sprint. At 60km to go, they flew down hairpins before another climb. Quick-Step set the pace at 70km to go, potentially chasing down Vingegaard.
Overall, the stage showcased intense competition, with riders jostling for position and potential stage wins. The race dynamics changed throughout the day, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com