Pogacar won his first title last September when he became the Tour’s youngest champion in 116 years. Pogacar’s gesture acted as a signal for those fighting for a prestigious stage win as the first accelerations took place. Cavendish, who consoled himself with the best sprinter’s green jersey, banged his handlebar in frustration after van Aert edged Jasper Philipsen to the line. Even Merckx, the five-time Tour champion widely regarded as the greatest-ever winner, was impressed. "Anyone who can follow Tadej will be close to victory," said van Aert.

Source: Fox News July 18, 2021 19:07 UTC