Tadej Pogacar Secures Victory in Stage 4 of the 2025 Tour de France
In an exhilarating display of cycling prowess, Tadej Pogacar clinched his first stage victory of the 2025 Tour de France on Stage 4, which spanned a challenging 174.2 km from Amiens Métropole to the picturesque city of Rouen. This stage was defined by a punchy route, boasting an elevation gain of 2,050 meters and featuring five categorized climbs in the final 40 kilometers, culminating in a thrilling uphill finish.
Early Breakaway
As the stage unfolded, just 67 kilometers in, a dynamic quartet broke away from the peloton: Kasper Asgreen from EF Education-EasyPost, Lenny Martinez of Bahrain Victorious, Jonas Abrahamsen from Uno-X Mobility, and Thomas Gachignard of Total Energies. Their initial lead stabilized at around two minutes, showcasing their determination and stamina.
A Demanding Course
Having commenced with 181 riders, the stage saw its first significant casualty when Jasper Philipsen had to withdraw after a collision with Bryan Couquard during the previous day’s intermediate sprint. Despite this setback, the race continued with its usual intensity. Matthieu Van der Poel of Alpecin-Deceuninck, wearing the yellow jersey, was under pressure as his team worked tirelessly to maintain control over the pace.
The youth of the race shone brightly as Jonathan Milan climbed to the top of the points standings, becoming the youngest Italian to sport the green jersey since Francesco Moser in 1975. Just 24 years old, Milan was a compelling contender, with his impressive tally of 81 points, while Biniam Girmay followed closely with 77.
The Climbs Test the Riders
As the kilometers ticked down, the race began its assault on the categorized climbs, starting with Côte Jacques Anquetil at Km 128.2 (cat. 4), followed by the steeper Côte de Belbeuf (cat. 3) at Km 146.6, Côte de Bonsecours (cat. 4) at Km 154.4, Côte de la Grand’Mare (cat. 4) at Km 162.1, and culminating with the demanding Rampe Saint-Hilaire (cat. 3) at Km 169.
These climbs significantly affected the dynamics of the race, as the peloton steadily chiseled away at the breakaway’s advantage, reducing their lead to just over a minute.
Tactical Plays Unfold
With 100 kilometers to go, the gap was barely maintaining at 1 minute and 51 seconds. Asgreen fought hard to capture points on the climbs, signaling intent while the main field regrouped, eager to catch the leaders.
Before tackling the sprint point at 10 kilometers, tensions rose as Abrahamsen attacked to gain crucial points. The peloton responded admirably, closing the gap to within 20 seconds soon after, positioning themselves for the inevitable catch.
Final Showdown in Rouen
As the Côte de Belbeuf approached, it was clear that alliance and strategy were vital components. Martinez valiantly held onto his lead but was caught just 4 kilometers later. A fierce competition ensued at Côte de Bonsecours, resulting in Tim Wellens earning more points for the King of the Mountains classification.
With 10 kilometers remaining, Pogacar made a decisive move, attacking alongside Jonas Vingegaard. The two cyclists created a gap, positioned well for the final stretch as they battled it out with a surging peloton close behind.
As they edged toward the last kilometer, tension mounted. Matteo Jorgenson launched a bold attack, but it was Pogacar who proved strongest, clinching the stage win in a dramatic conclusion.
Stage Results
- Stage Winner: Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates-XRG)
- 2nd Place: Mathieu Van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck)
- 3rd Place: Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-Lease a Bike)
- 4th Place: Oscar Onley (Picnic PostNL)
- 5th Place: Romain Grégoire (Groupama-FDJ)
General Classification
Following this stage, the top contenders in the general classification included:
- 1st: Mathieu Van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck)
- 2nd: Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates-XRG), +0”
- 3rd: Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-Lease a Bike), +8”
Pogacar’s victory not only marked a crucial milestone in his campaign but also added a layer of excitement to the unfolding Tour de France saga. The stage proved challenging and captivating, promising even more thrilling exchanges in the upcoming legs of the race.
