24” recovery at Cauterets-Cambasque (6th stage), 8” at the top of Puy-de-Dôme (9th stage), 8” (with bonuses) again at the top of the Grand Colombier (13th stage), this Friday . During the last three climbs, Tadej Pogacar, the gleaner, applied himself to catch up and got the better of the yellow jersey Jonas Vingegaard.
The burst of individual and collective energy from his team UAE Team Emirates is substantial. But after 13 stages, the Slovenian is wheel to wheel with the Dane. He who had almost been ejected during the 5th stage is completely back in the game, and can even rely on the psychological advantage that his last brilliant actions give him.
He is 9 seconds behind his rival. The match between “one of the best runners in the world” (when Vingegaard observes Pogacar) and “one of the best climbers in the world” (when Pogacar refers to Vingegaard) promises to be exciting. The suspense could last.
Faced with the threat, Jonas Vingegaard who sees his lead melting displays a cold detachment, an incredible serenity, pin a small satisfied smile. Is he bluffing, is he plagued by doubt or is he persuaded, with the strong Jumbo-Visma team, to have the weapons to put out the rebellion? Tadej Pogacar, sublime and tireless striker, must he in his pursuit be careful not to fall into the trap of an excess of excessive energy which could expose him to a return of boomerang comparable to what he had experienced? in 2022 during the crazy stage of the Col du Granon?
The Tour lives up to the trailer broadcast in Bilbao on July 1. The advantage can quickly change sides. But at the top of the Grand Colombier, Tadej Pogacar made an impression, touched his rival and, even if he is still in the position of the dolphin, took a (very) slight advantage. He will haunt the night of the yellow jersey…
