Carapaz Shines in Stage 18 Win at the 2026 Tour de France

Richard Carapaz, racing for EF Education-Easypost, claimed victory at stage 18 of the 2026 Tour de France, achieving the team’s first stage win after relentless efforts. The gripping stage at Orcières-Merlette showcased Carapaz’s tactical prowess as he broke free from a small group and cruised to triumph in the Alps.

Strategic Play in the Alps

The race profile entailed a large breakaway, with action unfolding early on the category one Côte d’Engins. A front group of 14 riders broke away, including Mads Pedersen, eager to reclaim points in the green jersey contest. Pedersen secured maximum points at the intermediate sprint, which arrived later in the stage after 130km.

Following the sprint, a new breakaway formed with five riders. Among them were Matteo Jorgenson, Tobias Halland Johannessen, Raúl García Pierna, Felix Engelhardt, and Mauro Schmid, joined by Carapaz and Valentin Paret-Peintre. As they approached the Côte de Saint-Léger-les-Mélèzes, the penultimate climb, the group shed Engelhardt and then García Pierna, though the latter clawed his way back.

On the final ascent, Carapaz unleashed his power, attacking with 4km to go. His decisive second attack distanced him from Paret-Peintre and Johannessen, allowing him to secure a solo win with elegant precision.

“Richard Carapaz played his cards perfectly today, showcasing his strengths and earning a classy victory.”

Carapaz’s victory marks his ninth Grand Tour stage win, making him the top South American stage winner, surpassing legends Nairo Quintana and Luis Herrera.

Rising in the Rankings

With the stage win in hand, Carapaz advances into the top 10 overall, still lagging nearly seven minutes behind ninth place Jordan Jegat. In the mountain classification, he narrows the gap with leader Tadej Pogačar, standing seven points shy, while Paret-Peintre trails one point behind.

Challenges for UAE Team Emirates

The UAE team faced adversity at Orcières-Merlette, with ailing riders reducing support for leader Tadej Pogačar. Brandon McNulty withdrew mid-stage due to illness, joining Adam Yates in recovery from gastrointestinal troubles. The team strategizes to minimize infections, opting for separated meals.

“We will miss Brandon in the coming days,” said Pogačar, emphasizing team unity and resilience.

Despite difficulties, Pogačar remains composed, affirming confidence for upcoming challenges on Alpe d’Huez, assured by his supporting team members.

Pedersen’s Green Jersey Pursuit

Mads Pedersen reclaimed green jersey dominance after a challenging stage 17. In stage 18, he broke away early, prioritizing intermediate sprint points and extending his lead over rival Jasper Philipsen by another 32 points.

Pedersen shows determination to cement his position without taking the contest to Paris.

The Unfolding Drama in Final Week

The yellow jersey may seem secure under Pogačar, but individual stories continue to unfold as riders like Yannis Voisard pursue career milestones. Voisard impressively sits 11th overall after strong performance in recent stages, aspiring for a top 10 finish.

Aaron Gate of XDS Astana also shines, achieving personal bests in the Tour’s rigorous environment, while strategizing alongside his team for potential stage wins.

Next Stage: Excitement Awaits at Alpe d’Huez

Stage 19 promises intense action, covering 128km with mounting tension toward the iconic climb of Alpe d’Huez. Historic records may be under threat as leaders intensify their pace amidst the closing days of the Tour.

Marco Pantani’s legendary ascent time remains one to watch as contenders aim for new heights.