Tadej Pogacar secured a spectacular solo victory in the sixth stage of the Tour de France during a punishing climb to Col du Tourmalet. Breaking away 40 kilometers from the finish, the four-time champion reclaimed the overall lead and the yellow jersey from Torstein Traeen. This dominant performance marks a significant step toward Pogacar's quest for a record-equalling fifth title.
Jonas Vingegaard finished second in stage six, trailing Pogacar by two minutes and 42 seconds. Meanwhile, Torstein Traeen's attempt to close the gap was derailed by a crash during the descent from Tourmalet. Following the stage, Pogacar held a lead of 2 minutes 42 seconds in the general ranking.
In stage seven, Belgian cyclist Tim Merlier of Soudal Quick-Step triumphed in a crowded sprint finish in Bordeaux. Merlier beat Soren Waerenskjold to the finish line following a breakneck final charge at the end of a 175km run from Hagetmau. The victory took place under scorching temperatures in France's south-western major wine hotspot.
Despite the stage win by Merlier, Tadej Pogacar retained the overall lead and the yellow jersey as he continues his pursuit of a third straight title.