PARIS — The Tour de France reached a thrilling climax this year, with the final stage incorporating the challenging Col de la Butte Montmartre, which brought a twist to the traditional celebrations of cycling’s grand tour.
Fans flocked to the newly included climb, eager to witness how the riders would tackle this unexpected challenge amid the parades that typically characterize the concluding day of the race.
Just two-thirds of the way up the climb, a group of exuberant French fans animatedly passed a baguette across the course, celebrating in a manner that underscored the festive spirit surrounding the event.
Despite the sun shining earlier in the day, rain began to pour by the time the riders hit the foot of Montmartre, ensuring the stage was anything but ordinary.
Most final stages have become mere parades after three grueling weeks of racing, but this year changed the narrative as riders faced a more competitive and dynamic course.
Organizers sought to encourage aggressive racing by taking final times on the flat section of the route, neutralizing potential general classification battles.
However, the added mileage of Montmartre disrupted the usual sprint finishes, pushing sprinters into a more challenging scenario.
As anticipation heightened, enthusiastic fans filled the barriers lining Montmartre; a variety of characters graced the scene, from cheering families to costumed revelers.
On the ground, the atmosphere radiated excitement despite the impending downpour, with spectators undeterred by the unpredictable weather.
The typical chaos of daily life in Paris intermixed with the vibrant thrill of the Tour, showcasing a city that embraces the occasion without becoming solely defined by it.
On the Champs-Élysées, the presence of VIP lounges and protected areas meant that not all fans had equal access to the jubilation that surrounded the finish area.
As the race approached its conclusion, riders like Tadej Pogacar and Julian Alaphilippe made their moves on the climb, captivating the audience with spirited performances.
Pogacar’s ambitious starts symbolized the shift from tradition as he accelerated the pace and split the peloton, underscoring the climb’s impact on the race dynamics.
The second ascent enabled the leading group to dwindle to just six contenders, guaranteeing that the final lap up Montmartre would ultimately determine the victor.
Matteo Jorgenson put forth a vigorous effort, supporting teammate Wout van Aert as they continued to challenge Pogacar in the lead-up to the climactic finish.
Following their tactical exchanges, van Aert unleashed his strength on the final stretch, employing his size and skill to surge ahead and clinch victory decisively.
The elation among the gathered fans resounded with roars of approval as van Aert triumphed, confirming his status as the crowd favorite in a race filled with emotion and excitement.
As the inclement weather lifted, revealing patches of sunlight, the victory felt scripted by fate, a symbolic reflection on the journey of the race.
Riders exchanged camaraderie in the wake of their exhausting efforts, painting a communal portrait of sportsmanship that transcended individual accolades.
As the night drew in, the atmosphere transformed but the exhilaration lingered, with riders and fans alike cherishing their experiences from a remarkable Tour.
The promise of returning next year hangs in the air, encapsulating the joy and anticipation that define this grand cycling tradition, as a grateful audience celebrates the shared journey of an unforgettable stage.
image source from：defector
