Conqueror of the Pyrenees Pogačar: Reclaimed the Yellow Jersey with a Power Display at the Col du Portet Summit

## Pogačar Conquers the Pyrenees: Strengthens His Grip on the Yellow Jersey with a Spectacular Show on a Legendary Summit The Pyrenees climbing day, considered one of the toughest and decisive stages of the Tour de France, played host to a performance that will be etched in cycling history. Slovenian young phenomenon Tadej Pogačar dominated his rivals with a crushing lead at the legendary Luz Ardiden summit, winning the stage while virtually sealing his grip on the Yellow Jersey (Maillot Jaune). This victory announced to the world that the 2020 champion's second triumph in Paris was merely a formality. UAE Team Emirates' leader Pogačar was already holding the general classification lead in the race. However, the proximity of his closest rivals, Jonas Vingegaard (Jumbo-Visma) and Richard Carapaz (Ineos Grenadiers), meant he viewed the Pyrenees' final mountain stage as an opportunity to widen the time gap and avoid any last-minute surprises. The 18th stage of the race, featuring the legendary Col du Tourmalet followed by the challenging Luz Ardiden climbs, was the last great arena for the general classification battle. ## Epic Battle in the Pyrenees: Luz Ardiden Summit Thrills Throughout the stage, team strategic maneuvers and the tense anticipation among the favorites persisted until the final climb, Luz Ardiden. Ineos Grenadiers attempted to weaken Pogačar by increasing the tempo for their leader Richard Carapaz. Meanwhile, Jumbo-Visma did their best to protect the Tour's surprise name, Jonas Vingegaard. Yet Pogačar maintained his composure against all these tactical moves. As Luz Ardiden's steep ramps began, the group of favorites started to thin out one by one. Around 3.5 kilometers to go, Tadej Pogačar made his move. Only Vingegaard and Carapaz could hold onto him in his first attack. This trio, maintaining a stalemate, engaged in what resembled a game of chess. Carapaz's weak attack was immediately countered by Pogačar. Then, the awaited moment arrived: With 500 meters to the finish line, Pogačar rose from his seat, showcasing his notorious explosive power, and left his rivals behind. The Slovenian star reached the mist-shrouded summit alone, celebrating his victory with arms wide open. This was not just a stage victory but also a psychological blow that dashed his rivals' hopes. With this triumph, Pogačar also secured the Polka Dot Jersey that symbolizes the King of the Mountains. ## The Young Prodigy's Power Play and Rivals' Helplessness Pogačar's performance demonstrated not only his physical prowess but also his exceptional mental strength. He carefully observed all of his rivals' moves, conserved his energy for the right moment, and didn't look back once he attacked. This dominant style evokes memories of legendary cyclists like Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault, who were known as "Patrons." For Jonas Vingegaard, this Tour was a success story. Unexpectedly undertaking the leadership role following the withdrawal of team leader Primož Roglič, the Danish cyclist became the most resilient against Pogačar. His fight till the last moment at Luz Ardiden and solidifying his second place in the general classification indicate that he'll be a name to reckon with in future Grand Tours. Yet, he had no answer to Pogačar's final attack. Ecuadorian Richard Carapaz, despite Ineos Grenadiers' full support, was helpless against Pogačar. Though he attempted tactically sound moves, he couldn't match the Slovenian rival's sheer strength in a one-on-one duel and completed the stage in third place, maintaining his third position in the general classification. ## The Weight of the Yellow Jersey and Pogačar's Legacy Winning a mountain stage while wearing the Yellow Jersey is one of the greatest feats for a champion. It signifies that the leader is not just defending but is also the strongest in the toughest terrains. Pogačar's victory on Luz Ardiden was precisely that. He wasn't content with just maintaining the time gap; he dominated his rivals on one of the Pyrenees' toughest peaks and made his championship indisputable. At just 22, approaching his second Tour de France victory, Pogačar has already entered the ranks of living cycling legends. His victorious comeback in the final time trial in 2020, then proving that success was no fluke with his dominant performance in 2021, affirmed his position. His composure, versatility (with strengths in both climbing and time trials), and tactical intelligence within the race make him a perennial favorite for future Grand Tours. Following this victory, the remainder of the race was largely a formality. Touted as one of the favorites for the upcoming time trial stage, Pogačar is now confidently expected to be atop the podium in Paris. The cycling world is witnessing the dawn of a new era: The Pogačar Era.