The tour de france witnessed another jaw-dropping twist today as Dutch cyclist Thymen Arensman powered through wet mountain roads to take victory on a shortened Stage 19. The drama unfolded in the Alps as defending champion Tadej Pogacar stayed firmly in control of the yellow jersey, with just two days left in this year’s grueling race.
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Stage 19 Delivers High Drama
Stage 19 was supposed to stretch over 129 kilometers from Albertville to La Plagne. However, due to last-minute health concerns in the region, race officials shortened the route to just under 95 kilometers. Despite the reduced distance, the stage delivered all the intensity and emotion fans could have asked for.
Arensman attacked with 14 kilometers to go, pulling away from a high-speed peloton. He held off a late chase by Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogacar to clinch the win by mere seconds. His victory marked his second stage win of this year’s tour and came with a powerful emotional finish.
Key Points Summary
- Stage 19 shortened to under 95 km due to safety concerns.
- Thymen Arensman wins his second stage of the 2025 race.
- Tadej Pogacar keeps yellow jersey with 4:24 overall lead.
- Jonas Vingegaard remains in second place.
- Florian Lipowitz and Oscar Onley continue to battle for the third spot.
- Two stages remain before the grand finale in Paris.
Pogacar Still in Control
Despite the fierce pace and surprise attacks, Pogacar crossed the line moments behind Arensman and Vingegaard. His lead in the general classification remains a commanding 4 minutes and 24 seconds. Barring a disaster in the final two stages, Pogacar is well on track to secure his fourth Tour de France title.
Behind him, Jonas Vingegaard showed strong form but couldn’t make a dent in the time gap. The real battle seems to be forming for the third position, with Florian Lipowitz narrowly holding off a charging Oscar Onley, who is just over a minute behind.
What’s Coming Next
Stage 20 is set to cover 184 kilometers between Nantua and Pontarlier. It features rolling terrain with some challenging hills, making it a stage designed for breakaway riders rather than GC contenders. Expect teams without stage wins to go all-in with aggressive tactics.
Stage 21, the final day, returns to tradition with a ceremonial ride into Paris. Riders will loop through the heart of the city, ending with multiple high-speed laps on the Champs-Élysées. While it’s usually a sprint finish, some teams might test the waters for a late ambush if gaps remain close.
Spotlight on the Standouts
Arensman has quickly become a fan favorite. With two major mountain wins under his belt this year, he’s proving to be one of the most exciting climbers in the sport. His strength and timing on Stage 19 were impeccable, making him a rider to watch in future grand tours.
Meanwhile, Pogacar continues to dazzle with consistent power and tactical intelligence. Even when not winning stages, his ability to limit losses and stay calm under pressure demonstrates why he remains the undisputed leader.
Final Weekend Predictions
With just two stages to go, here’s how things could unfold:
- Yellow Jersey (Overall Leader): Pogacar is likely to keep it unless a major crash or mechanical issue arises.
- Polka Dot Jersey (Best Climber): Still open depending on Stage 20 outcomes.
- Green Jersey (Best Sprinter): Expected to be contested on the final sprint in Paris.
- Young Rider Classification: Oscar Onley could threaten the podium if he shines in Stage 20.
The last two stages may not change the GC dramatically, but they offer exciting possibilities for riders looking to make a final impression. Expect fireworks, especially from teams still seeking their first win.
With the finish line in sight, this year’s tour de france has already delivered unforgettable moments. From unexpected stage winners to commanding performances from cycling’s elite, fans can expect a thrilling end as the race heads into Paris. Share your thoughts below—who impressed you the most this year?