Pogačar Strikes on the Tourmalet
Tadej Pogačar launched a devastating attack on the final climb of the Tourmalet to win stage six of the 2026 Tour de France and seize the yellow jersey from defending champion Jonas Vingegaard. The UAE Team Emirates rider crossed the finish line in 4 hours 42 minutes, 38 seconds ahead of Vingegaard, who struggled to match the pace on the legendary Pyrenean ascent.
Stage Details
The 180-kilometer stage from Bayonne to Bagnères-de-Bigorre featured three categorized climbs, culminating in the hors catégorie Tourmalet. The decisive move came 8 kilometers from the summit, when Pogačar accelerated sharply, dropping Vingegaard and all other contenders. He soloed to the top, gaining time on the descent to extend his overall lead.
According to race director Christian Prudhomme, "Pogačar's attack was perfectly timed. He showed he is the strongest rider in this race."
Impact on General Classification
Pogačar now leads the general classification by 38 seconds over Vingegaard, with third-placed Primoz Roglic a further 1 minute 12 seconds behind. The victory marks Pogačar's second stage win in this year's Tour and puts him in prime position for a third overall title.
"I felt good today and knew I had to take time on Vingegaard if I wanted to win the Tour," Pogačar said. "The Tourmalet is a special climb, and I gave everything."
What's Next
Stage seven on Friday is a 165-kilometer route from Bagnères-de-Bigorre to Pau, featuring two category-one climbs before a flat finish. The race continues through the Pyrenees before heading toward the Alps in the third week.
