Tour de France: Pogacar Recovering After Crash, Abrahamsen Claims Stage Victory

Jonas Abrahamsen Triumphs in Tour de France Stage 11 Amidst Pogačar crash

Toulouse, France – July 16, 2025 – Norwegian cycling sensation Jonas Abrahamsen surged to a remarkable victory in the 11th stage of the Tour de France today, attacking from the outset and holding off a furious late charge to claim his maiden stage win. The day, however, was also marked by a significant incident involving race favorite Tadej Pogačar, who crashed just kilometers from the finish line.

Abrahamsen,riding for the Uno-X Mobility team,out-sprinted Swiss rider mauro Schmid in a thrilling photo finish. belgian-born Dutch ace mathieu van der Poel made a valiant late push but ultimately finished third, seven seconds adrift. The dramatic sprint finish capped a day that saw Abrahamsen’s early breakaway prove decisive.

The stage, a 97.4-mile loop from Toulouse back to the “Pink City,” was anticipated to favor sprinters, but the inclusion of a challenging 20% incline on the Côte de Pech David near the finish added an element of unpredictability. Abrahamsen,Schmid,and Davide Ballerini formed an early break,and despite persistent attacks from strong contenders like Van der Poel,Wout van Aert,and Victor Campenaerts,their efforts were ultimately thwarted by the determined front duo.

“I broke my collarbone four weeks ago,” a jubilant Abrahamsen revealed after the stage. “I cried at the hospital because I thought I wouldn’t make it to the Tour de France. I hoped, and every day I did everything I could to come back.To stand here in the Tour de France and have won a stage is amazing.”

The focus later shifted to the peloton as Tadej Pogačar, the three-time champion and a strong contender for the overall title, went down with approximately 2.5 miles left in the stage. In a display of sportsmanship, his general classification rivals, including his main rival Jonas Vingegaard, slowed their pace to allow Pogačar to rejoin the group. Pogačar,seemingly unhurt,confirmed he was “quite OK,a bit beaten up” and expressed his gratitude to the peloton for their chivalrous gesture.

“Thanks to the peloton in front, they actually waited,” Pogačar told reporters. “Obviously the race was more or less over back there, but still, they could have taken time. Really big respect to everybody in front. Thanks for your support,guys.”

Ben Healy of the EF Education-EasyPost team retained the overall leader’s yellow jersey, maintaining his 29-second lead over Pogačar. Healy confirmed a conversation with Vingegaard where both agreed to wait for the Slovenian rider.

The Tour de France now heads into its first high-mountain showdown tomorrow with stage 12,featuring a summit finish on the iconic Hautacam. The cycling world will be watching to see how pogačar responds after today’s incident and if any challengers can capitalize on the shifting dynamics of this thrilling race.

How does Pogačar’s fractured clavicle impact the overall general classification (GC) standings?

Stage 13 Recap: A Day of Drama and Determination

Today’s Stage 13 of the tour de France delivered a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by a notable crash involving race favorite Tadej Pogačar and a stunning stage win for Norwegian rider Tobias Foss Abrahamsen. The 13th stage, a 27.4km individual time trial from Chatillon-sur-Chalaronne to Cormaranche-en-Forez, proved decisive in the general classification battle.

Pogačar’s Crash and Recovery Status

The two-time Tour de France champion, Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates), suffered a heavy crash approximately 22km into the individual time trial. Initial reports indicated a fractured clavicle, immediatly jeopardizing his chances in the race.

Immediate Aftermath: Pogačar was visibly in pain and received immediate medical attention at the scene. He was transported to hospital for further assessment.

Injury Confirmation: Scans confirmed a fractured clavicle.While surgery isn’t immediately required, his participation in the remainder of the Tour de France is now in serious doubt. Team doctors are evaluating his condition daily.

Impact on GC: This crash considerably alters the general classification (GC) standings. Pogačar was previously second and his withdrawal or diminished performance opens the door for Jonas Vingegaard and other contenders.

Recovery Timeline: A fractured clavicle typically requires several weeks of recovery, making a return to racing in the near future unlikely.

abrahamsen’s Unexpected Victory

Amidst the drama surrounding Pogačar,Tobias Foss Abrahamsen (Ineos Grenadiers) seized the possibility to claim his first Tour de France stage victory. He posted a blistering time of 32 minutes and 37 seconds,beating Filippo Ganna by 21 seconds.

Performance Analysis: Abrahamsen’s win wasn’t just about speed; it was a masterclass in pacing and technical skill on the challenging time trial course.

Key Moments: He consistently maintained a high power output throughout the course, especially excelling on the rolling hills.

Previous Results: While not a household name, Abrahamsen has demonstrated strong time-trialing capabilities in previous races, hinting at his potential for a stage win.

Ineos Grenadiers Strategy: The Ineos grenadiers team has been focusing on time trial performance,and Abrahamsen’s victory validates their training and preparation.

Updated General Classification Standings (as of July 16, 2025)

The GC standings have been dramatically reshaped following Stage 13. hear’s a look at the top 5:

1. Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-lease a Bike) – Time: 55h 22m 15s
2. Carlos Rodriguez (Ineos Grenadiers) – Time: 55h 23m 48s (+1m 33s)
3. Jai Hindley (Bora-Hansgrohe) – Time: 55h 24m 52s (+2m 37s)
4. Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Rapid-Step) – Time: 55h 25m 30s (+3m 15s)
5. Julian alaphilippe (Soudal Quick-Step) – Time: 55h 26m 01s (+3m 46s)

(Note: These standings are subject to change based on subsequent stages.)

Time Trial Technology and tactics

Individual time trials in the Tour de France are showcases of cutting-edge cycling technology and strategic racing.

Aerodynamic Optimization: Riders utilize highly aerodynamic bikes, helmets, and clothing to minimize wind resistance.

Power Meters: Power meters provide real-time data on a rider’s output, allowing them to pace themselves effectively.

Pacing Strategies: Accomplished time trialists employ carefully planned pacing strategies,balancing effort and energy conservation.

Course Reconnaissance: Thoroughly studying the course beforehand is crucial for identifying optimal gear selection and lines.

Looking Ahead: Stage 14 and Beyond

Stage 14, a mountainous stage from Cormaranche-en-Forez to Saint-Étienne, promises further challenges for the remaining contenders.

mountain Stage Preview: The stage features several significant climbs, favoring climbers and perhaps creating further splits in the GC.

Vingegaard’s Advantage: Jonas Vingegaard will look to consolidate his lead, while his rivals will attempt to close the gap.

Potential for Attacks: Expect aggressive racing and attacks from riders looking to gain time.

Weather Conditions: Weather conditions could play a significant role, potentially impacting the race dynamics.

Tour de France Key Terms:

*General Classification (