Julian Alaphilippe’s Misplaced Triumph: Stage 15 of the Tour de France

A Day of Mixed Emotions in Carcassonne

French stage victories in the Tour de France have become a rare occurrence, making any win a cause for celebration. However, Julian Alaphilippe, the former world road race champion, experienced a bittersweet moment during Stage 15 in Carcassonne. After crossing the finish line, he raised his arms in triumph, only to learn moments later that he had actually finished third, behind two Belgian riders.

Tim Wellens Claims Victory

Leading the pack was Tim Wellens, a teammate of Tadej Pogacar from the Emirates-XRG team, who secured a solo victory well ahead of compatriot Victor Campenaerts, a teammate of Jonas Vingegaard. Alaphilippe’s team manager, Raphael Meyer, explained the confusion surrounding Alaphilippe’s premature celebration, noting that his radio had malfunctioned during an earlier crash, which also resulted in a dislocated shoulder that he had to pop back into place.

Vingegaard’s Team Strategy Under Scrutiny

For Vingegaard, the day was fraught with tension as his Visma-Lease a bike team displayed questionable tactics. While Pogacar and his team maintained a consistent approach, Vingegaard’s squad seemed to oscillate between good and bad days. The defending champion appeared perplexed by his teammates’ decisions, especially when some, including Campenaerts, were seen pushing the pace at the front while Vingegaard struggled at the back.

Wellens’ Decisive Move

In a race characterized by unexpected turns, Wellens made his decisive move with 43 kilometers remaining on the Col de Fontbruno. The Belgian champion, already a stage winner in the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España, never looked back, ultimately winning by nearly a minute and a half over Campenaerts.

Team Dynamics and Leadership

Trine Vingegaard Hansen, Vingegaard’s wife and personal manager, had previously voiced concerns about the team’s commitment to her husband’s success. Her worries seemed justified as both Campenaerts and Wout van Aert appeared to be racing for individual stage wins rather than supporting Vingegaard’s overall ambitions. In contrast, Pogacar’s team operated with a clear hierarchy, ensuring that everyone understood their roles.

Pogacar’s Support for Wellens

Despite feeling under the weather due to fluctuating temperatures, Pogacar remained unfazed and even took on the role of cheerleader for Wellens. He frequently checked in with his team car, asking for updates on Wellens’ progress, humorously insisting that he looked "fabulous."

Looking Ahead: The Challenge of Mont Ventoux

As the Tour de France approaches a rest day, the 16th stage promises to be a daunting challenge, taking the peloton from Montpellier to the iconic Mont Ventoux. With Pogacar likely aiming to extend his lead, fans can expect an exhilarating showdown in the days to come.

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This article encapsulates the drama and excitement of Stage 15, highlighting the complexities of team dynamics and individual aspirations in the high-stakes world of professional cycling.