Pogačar extends lead in Tour de France, says Vingegaard shows slight dip in form

Tadej Pogačar secured his fourth stage win in as many weeks on the Col du Haag, extending his general-classification lead to four minutes and thirty seconds ahead of Jonas Vingegaard. The Slovenian’s solo attack left him clear of his main rivals and put him in a commanding position with a week of racing remaining.

After the stage, Pogačar praised Vingegaard’s effort but suggested the Dane is not at the same level as in recent Tours. > "If my power meter is correct when he was pulling he did an amazing performance on the front, but I think honestly he is missing a little bit compared to the last few Tours," he said at the post-stage press conference. He added that Vingegaard could still challenge on upcoming Alpine climbs, noting that the upcoming stages to Plateau de Salaison and Alpe d’Huez suit the Danish rider.

Pogačar also explained his aggressive riding style, citing team policy against defensive tactics and his belief that the race can change quickly. He recalled losing time in previous years and said he prefers to keep pressing for stage wins while protecting the yellow jersey.

The stage win marks Pogačar’s 25th career Tour victory and his fourth in the current edition, reinforcing his dominance in this year’s race.