Cyclist Pogacar emerges victorious at Hautacam, securing the yellow jersey
### Tadej Pogačar Triumphs in the Pyrenees: A Tour de France Masterclass
Tadej Pogačar has once again proven his dominance in the Tour de France, particularly in the challenging terrain of the Pyrenees. The Slovenian rider's performances in the mountains have been marked by commanding stage wins and strategic maneuvers that have propelled him to the forefront of the race.
#### Stage Victories in the Pyrenees
The most recent addition to Pogačar's impressive Pyrenean stage victories came in the 12th stage of the 2025 Tour de France, where he claimed a solo victory at Hautacam. This marked his 20th career Tour stage win and his eighth in the Pyrenees, a feat that places him among the most successful climbers in the history of the race.
Pogačar's victory at Hautacam was particularly significant as it was his first on this iconic climb. In 2022, he had suffered a significant defeat on the same slopes against Jonas Vingegaard. However, this year, Pogačar reclaimed his position, distancing his main rivals and finishing over two minutes ahead of Vingegaard.
#### Strategic Impact
The 2025 Hautacam stage was a pivotal moment in the race. After losing time earlier in the race, Pogačar not only took back the yellow jersey but also opened a sizable gap (over three minutes) to Vingegaard. This performance put Pogačar in a strong position to pursue his fourth Tour de France overall victory.
The Pyrenees have often been the battleground for Pogačar and Vingegaard. The 2025 Hautacam stage marked a significant shift in their rivalry, with Pogačar turning the tables decisively in his favor.
#### The Race Ahead
With two stages remaining in the Pyrenees, the race is far from over. The upcoming mountain time trial on Friday to Peyragudes and the stage to Superbagnères on Saturday, which includes the Tourmalet, promise to be thrilling.
The provisional classification of the 12th stage includes Pogačar, Vingegaard, Florian Lipowitz, Tobias Johannessen, Oscar Onley, Kevin Vauquelin, Remco Evenepoel, Felix Gall, Primož Roglič, and many others. The race for the third place in the general classification is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with young talents such as Lipowitz, Onley, and Vauquelin emerging as contenders.
The final week of the Tour de France will see the riders tackle the terrible Mont Ventoux and two gargantuan mountain stages to the Col de la Loze and La Plagne. These stages will test the mettle of even the strongest riders and could potentially shake up the general classification.
As the race enters its final stages, Pogačar remains in a strong position. His victory at Hautacam was a testament to his resilience, tactical brilliance, and ability to deliver under pressure. His status as one of the greatest climbers of his generation is secure, but the race for the 2025 Tour de France title is far from over.
Sports enthusiasts will be eagerly anticipating the upcoming stages in the Tour de France, as Tadej Pogačar's dominance continues in the Pyrenees. With his eighth Pyrenean stage victory at Hautacam, Pogačar has solidified his standing as one of the sports' most successful climbers, showcasing his unwavering commitment and strategic prowess.
