Marco PantaniIn a performance that will be etched into cycling history, Tadej Pogačar, riding for UAE Team Emirates-XRG, ascended Alpe d’Huez in a record-breaking 35 minutes and 26 seconds during Stage 19 of the 2026 Tour de France. This remarkable feat not only secured his fifth stage win of the race but also shattered Marco Pantani’s longstanding record from 1995. (cyclingnews.com)
The Slovenian champion’s ascent was nothing short of extraordinary. Starting 12 kilometers from the summit, Pogačar launched a decisive attack, erasing a deficit of over three minutes to the leading trio of Richard Carapaz, Lenny Martinez, and Sepp Kuss. By the time he reached the final kilometer, Pogačar had distanced his rivals, crossing the line solo to claim victory. (skysports.com)
Pogačar’s time of 35:26 on the 13.8-kilometer climb surpassed Pantani’s previous record of 36:40 by a full minute and 14 seconds. This achievement underscores Pogačar’s exceptional climbing prowess and his dominance in the 2026 Tour. (cyclingnews.com)
The atmosphere on Alpe d’Huez was electric, with an estimated 600,000 spectators lining the 21 hairpin bends to witness this historic moment. Pogačar’s victory not only solidified his lead in the general classification but also brought him closer to equaling the record for Tour de France victories, a testament to his enduring excellence in the sport. (skysports.com)
As the Tour progresses towards its conclusion, Pogačar’s performance on Alpe d’Huez will be remembered as a defining moment, highlighting his status as one of cycling’s greats and his relentless pursuit of excellence.