Roglič’s Crash Hands Girmay Second Sprint Stage Victory
Biniam Girmay (Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert Matériaux) sprints to his second Tour de France stage win after a dramatic crash by Primož Roglič (Jumbo-Visma) in the final 100 meters.
Roglič’s hopes of winning the Tour de France have been dealt a major blow after he crashed heavily in the final 100 meters of stage 19.
The three-time Vuelta a España winner was in a prime position to challenge for the stage victory, but he came down hard on the wet descent into Cahors. Roglic suffered a suspected broken collarbone, and his race is now likely over. The crash marred what had otherwise been a thrilling climax to the stage, with Girmay coming from behind to pip Caleb Ewan (Lotto-Soudal) to the line.
Girmay’s victory is the first for an African rider at the Tour de France since Daniel Teklehaimanot won stage seven in 2015. It is also a huge result for Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert Matériaux, who have now won two stages at this year’s race. Girmay praised his team and staff after the stage, especially his teammates who helped him to victory.
I’m so grateful to my team, said Girmay. They worked so hard for me today. I knew I had good legs, but I wouldn’t have won without them. This is a dream come true. The crash and Girmay’s victory overshadowed what had been a fascinating stage, with numerous attacks and breakaways throughout the day.
Roglič was not the only high-profile rider to crash on stage 19. Alejandro Valverde (Movistar Team) also came down hard in the final 100 meters. Valverde, who is retiring at the end of the season, suffered a broken elbow and will miss the Vuelta a España.
Despite the crashes, the Tour de France is still wide open. Jonas Vingegaard (Jumbo-Visma) remains the overall leader, but Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) is just 11 seconds behind. The final two stages of the race, including a time trial, are likely to be decisive.
Stage 19 Results
General Classification after Stage 19
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