“It was an incredibly tough day,” Vingegaard reflected. “I don’t think I’ve ever ridden such a hard stage in my career. I felt quite good. It was our plan to make the race hard from early on, and that’s exactly what we did. I want to thank my teammates once again for their hard work today. Their support continues to motivate me. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to take any time back from Pogačar in the end, but once again we proved to be evenly matched.”  

The race came to life on the Col du Glandon, the first of three hors catégorie climbs. Team Visma | Lease a Bike immediately took control. A breakaway of eight riders, including Matteo Jorgenson, reached the summit of the Glandon with a two-minute lead over the peloton. The breakaway riders steadily extended their advantage on the approach to the foot of the Col de la Madeleine.  

On the Madeleine, Team Visma | Lease a Bike continued to apply pressure on their rivals. After strong turns on the front by Tiesj Benoot, Wout van Aert, and Sepp Kuss, Vingegaard launched his first attack. Only Pogačar could follow the Dane’s pace. The pair quickly bridged across to the breakaway. On the descent and through the valley, Jorgenson worked tirelessly in support of his team leader. When hesitation arose in the lead group, Jorgenson responded to an attack from O’Connor and Einer Rubio, but was forced to let go shortly thereafter.  

Meanwhile, cooperation broke down in the group of favourites. They were rejoined by a larger peloton, which still contained several Visma | Lease a Bike riders. The final climb of the day was the Col de la Loze. As they approached the summit, Vingegaard attacked once more, but Pogačar was again able to hold his wheel. Vingegaard, Pogačar, and Oscar Onley eventually contested second place behind stage winner O’Connor. After a sharp sprint from Pogačar, Vingegaard had to settle for third.