Pogacar wins fourth Tour de France title

PARIS, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Tadej Pogacar captured his fourth Tour de France title with a comfortable advantage after the final stage on Sunday.

The 26-year-old Slovenian rider's previous triumphs in the world's most prestigious cycling race came in 2020, 2021 and 2024.

"Just speechless to win the Tour de France, this one feels especially amazing," he said. "Just super proud that I can wear this yellow jersey."

Two-time champion Jonas Vingegaard finished the overall race 4 minutes, 24 seconds behind Pogacar in second place, while Florian Lipowitz was 11 minutes adrift in third.

Belgian rider Wout van Aert won the 132.3-kilometer 21st and last stage.

Because of the risk of heavy rain and crashes, organizers had earlier decided to neutralize the times 50 kilometers from the end, with Pogacar effectively securing his victory providing he crossed the finish line.

But despite the danger of crashing on slick roads, Pogacar showed his will to win and launched his attack in the Montmartre climbs amid the fans' cheers, only to see Van Aert roar back for a stage win. Pogacar crossed the line in fourth place. ■