Wildfires force organizers to cut final stage despite Pogacar’s lead

Tadej Pogacar, the four-time Tour de France champion, is set for an expedited victory parade in Paris after organizers shortened the final stage due to wildfires. The 20th stage won by Richard Carapaz will only be 89 km long, starting on the Champs-Élysées instead of reaching Alpe d’Huez.

According to reporting by The Guardian - Sport, Pogacar now holds a six-minute and 26-second lead over Remco Evenepoel, expected to secure his fifth title in Paris despite the stage's abrupt change. This move is part of broader efforts to reinforce response teams in affected areas.

Pogacar could celebrate sooner with lead of six minutes and 26 seconds according to reporting by The Guardian - Sport.

Previous Wildfires Caused Race Adjustments

This is the third stage affected this year due to wildfires or a heatwave. Safety concerns resurfaced following chaotic climbs on Alpe d’Huez, with incidents like motorbikes being blocked and uncontrolled crowds causing crashes.

The crash involved Movistar’s climber Einer Rubio, who sustained facial injuries after being pushed by a spectator. Race director Thierry Gouvenou blamed the modern braking systems for the accident, stating if cars were from 20 years ago it wouldn’t have happened.

Risk of Fan Behavior Ignites Debate

Several incidents highlighted the tension between fans and organizers. The Guardian reported fan confrontations over gifts and barriers with race vehicles. French national champion Romain Grégoire described spectators as acting like “they were getting buttslapped,” while Evenepoel’s manager Klaas Lodewyck called for better crowd control.

Frequently Asked Questions

How will the shortened final stage affect Pogacar's chances?

Pogacar is expected to secure his fifth Tour de France title in Paris, with a six-minute and 26-second lead over Remco Evenepoel. Despite the change, his lead should still be enough for him to celebrate in Paris.

Will this affect any other events?

Other stages were similarly affected by wildfires or heatwaves earlier this year. This is the third time within the race that such disruptions have occurred.