Wellens Seals Historic Win After 45km Solo Attack
Tim Wellens delivered a masterful performance to win Stage 15 of the Tour de France in Carcassonne, completing a 45km solo ride to claim his first stage victory in the Tour and complete a rare trilogy of wins across all three Grand Tours.
The Belgian cyclist broke away from a reduced lead group after an early crash disrupted the peloton, capitalizing on the chaos to power through to the finish line. Cheered on by a large Belgian crowd, Wellens enjoyed the moment, capping off a memorable day for UAE Team Emirates.
Pogacar Keeps Yellow Jersey Amid Turmoil
Tadej Pogacar, who has already claimed four stage wins in this edition, held on to the yellow jersey and preserved his 4-minute 13-second lead over Jonas Vingegaard. The Slovenian avoided getting caught behind the early pile-up that involved key rivals, including Vingegaard and Florian Lipowitz.
Despite battling illness, Pogacar remains focused on his pursuit of a fourth Tour de France title. “Half the peloton is coughing,” he admitted. “But I’m feeling better now.”
Emotional Finish and a Misjudged Celebration
While Wellens celebrated his win with high-fives and elation, there was confusion behind. French rider Julian Alaphilippe mistakenly believed he had won the stage when he sprinted across the line in third. Due to a lost race radio, he was unaware that Wellens and Victor Campenaerts had already secured first and second.
Realizing his error post-finish, Alaphilippe could only hang his head, offering a rare moment of comic relief during an otherwise intense stage.
Looking Ahead: Mont Ventoux Awaits
Monday marks the final rest day of the Tour before riders face a grueling ascent up Mont Ventoux in Stage 16. With a 15.8km climb at a 7.9% gradient, the summit at 1901m is expected to be decisive in the battle for the yellow jersey.
Though Pogacar downplayed the challenge for now, anticipation is building for a showdown with Vingegaard on the iconic Alpine stage.
A Tour to Remember for UAE Team
With five stage wins and the yellow jersey firmly secured, UAE Team Emirates continues to dominate this year’s Tour. Wellens’ victory not only adds to their tally but underscores the team’s strength in depth.
As the race heads into its final week, all eyes will remain on Pogacar and whether he can defend his lead through the Alps.
