Eritrean cyclist Biniam Girmay made history as the first black African to win a Tour de France stage, triumphing in both stage three and stage eight. The 24-year-old Intermarche-Wanty rider clinched victory in a thrilling bunch sprint in Villeneuve-sur-Lot, narrowly beating Wout van Aert. Despite initially finishing fifth, Mark Cavendish was relegated, further highlighting Girmay’s remarkable achievement.
A Historic Victory for Girmay
Girmay’s victory in stage three was a landmark moment for African cycling. He followed it up with another impressive win in stage eight, solidifying his reputation as one of the fastest sprinters in this year’s Tour de France. In the frantic sprint finish, Girmay’s superior speed and tactical acumen shone through, earning him a well-deserved place in the record books.
“The green jersey gives me wings – I feel super fast. It’s in the head. I’ve had my ups and downs in recent seasons but I changed things this year and it’s working,” said an elated Girmay.
Race Standings and Key Moments
Tadej Pogacar retained the leader’s yellow jersey, maintaining a one minute six-second lead over Remco Evenepoel, with defending champion Jonas Vingegaard trailing by a further eight seconds. However, podium contender Primoz Roglic experienced a significant setback after a crash, dropping from fourth to sixth in the general classification.
Roglic’s crash, which occurred 12km from the finish, resulted in a ripped jersey and a bloodied shoulder. The Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe rider, who was initially one minute 31 seconds adrift of the podium, now finds himself three minutes 28 seconds behind.
Pogacar’s Perspective
Race leader Tadej Pogacar, who also encountered a crash earlier in the stage but re-joined the main group without issue, expressed his disappointment for Roglic. “It is really devastating. He was in very good shape already and I could feel he was getting better with every stage. I’m pretty sure he would have been fighting for the GC in the next few days,” Pogacar commented.
Sprint Battle and Controversy
The 203.6km route from Aurillac to Villeneuve-sur-Lot offered a prime opportunity for a bunch sprint, assuming the sprinter’s teams could control any potential breakaways. A four-man group, including riders from Groupama-FDJ, Uno-X Mobility, and Total Energies, managed to establish a three-and-a-half-minute lead over the peloton. However, their move was neutralized with more than 40km remaining, setting the stage for the sprint finish.
Both Mark Cavendish and Arnaud Demare faced relegation due to illegal moves made during the sprint, adding an element of controversy to the day’s events.
Looking Ahead: Stage 13 and Beyond
Stage 13, a relatively flat 165.3km route from Agen to Pau, presents another opportunity for the sprinters. However, the hilly terrain approaching the finish could pose a challenge. With only two expected remaining chances for sprinters to secure victories – including stage 16 in Nimes – the competition is heating up.
Mark Cavendish, who claimed a record 35th Tour de France stage win last week, will be eager to add to his tally. Yet, Girmay’s exceptional form and confidence make him a formidable contender.
Conclusion
Biniam Girmay’s historic victories at the Tour de France not only mark a significant achievement for African cycling but also highlight his exceptional talent and determination. As the race progresses, all eyes will be on Girmay and the other top contenders as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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