Tour de France Stage 20: Pogačar All But Confirms Fifth Title as Carapaz Triumphs on Alpe d'Huez
K.L
In a historic queen stage featuring over 5,600 meters of elevation, Tadej Pogačar rode defensively to secure his yellow jersey, crossing the line with teammate Isaac Del Toro. While Richard Carapaz took a spectacular stage win in the polka-dot jersey, Pogačar now stands on the brink of his fifth Tour de France title heading into the final day in Paris.
Foto: Posnetek zaslona
Tour de France Stage 20: Pogačar All But Confirms Fifth Title as Carapaz Triumphs on Alpe d'Huez
The 20th stage of the 2026 Tour de France lived up to its reputation as the ultimate queen stage. Over 170.9 kilometers and a staggering 5,600 meters of climbing, the world's best cyclists battled the Alpine giants. While Richard Carapaz secured a legendary victory, Tadej Pogačar successfully defended his yellow jersey, effectively sealing his fifth career overall win.
A Masterclass in Defensive Riding
Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) entered the day with a commanding lead and rode with calculated composure. Instead of his typical long-range attacks, the Slovenian focused on monitoring his closest rival, Remco Evenepoel, and supporting his young teammate Isaac Del Toro.
On the final ascent of the legendary Alpe d'Huez, Pogačar remained unfazed by surges from the group of favorites. He and Del Toro crossed the line together, arm-in-arm, 1 minute and 5 seconds behind the stage winner. This performance solidified Pogačar’s lead at 6 minutes and 26 seconds over Evenepoel, while Del Toro climbed to a historic third place on the overall podium.
Carapaz Wins, Kuss Heartbroken
The stage victory went to Richard Carapaz (EF Education-EasyPost), who donned the polka-dot jersey. Carapaz capitalized on late drama when Sepp Kuss, who had been leading solo and looked destined for victory, suffered two crashes on the final descent of the Col de Sarenne. Carapaz powered past the American with less than 6km to go to claim his second stage win of this year's race.
Remco Evenepoel finished second on the stage after a late surge, gaining a symbolic 45 seconds on Pogačar, but the Slovenian's overall dominance remained unchallenged.
The Road to Paris
With only the final stage to Paris remaining, Pogačar is poised to join the elite club of five-time Tour de France winners. The 2026 edition has highlighted his evolution as a rider—capable of both explosive dominance and tactical restraint when wearing the Maillot Jaune.
Stage 20 Top Results:
1. Richard Carapaz (ECU) 4:59:39
2. Remco Evenepoel (BEL) +0:26
3. Sepp Kuss (USA) +0:31
4. Tadej Pogačar (SLO) +1:05
General Classification after Stage 20:
1. Tadej Pogačar (SLO) 72:53:44
2. Remco Evenepoel (BEL) +6:26
3. Isaac Del Toro (MEX) +9:42
Sources: [Cyclingnews](https://www.cyclingnews.com )