Jonas Vingegaard's MASSIVE Gamble

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[@patrickwong4824]

Give Jonas credit, he took a big risk. Yes, it failed, but you don’t know if you don’t give it a try. Give Pogi credit, he is the strongest rider of this year's Tour. It is more or less over.

[@janefreeman995]

Anything can happen with cycling. But I hope they all stay healthy and upright. I don't have a favorite this year. But having had a collapsed lung, JV is extraordinary and both top guys are likeable sportsmen.

[@joeelliott2157]

When you are behind you have to take big chances, even if it will probably backfire. Vingegaard raced it like a Tour de France champion. I root for Pogacar but it will be interesting to see what happens when Vingegaard is better recovered from a punctured lung. These guys have been 1-2 in the last four years, this year one of them had a punctured lung three months ago and they are still 1-2. Amazing. Maybe the greatest Tour de France rivalry of all time.

[@TheIndianaGeoff]

Agree. He fought and fell short. But he went down swinging. No shame.

[@kamolhengkiatisak1527]

@@joeelliott2157 Should say 1-2 in the last 3 years. The first year 2020, it was Pog 1 and Roglic 2 in the famous last stage ITT win. In 2021, Pog 1, VJ 2. In 2022/23, VJ 1, Pog 2. This year 2024 has yet to be concluded, does not count until the fat lady sings.

[@milhouse53]

The credit was given

[@jackspeed650]

Just for info..The guy with the chips was arrested and taken to the police station. He was too intoxicated to give a statement and he didn't give it until the next day after spending the night in jail. The professional cyclists association filed a formal complaint against him.

[@rdcanyon]

That’s as far as it will go most probably

[@Draddar]

Not sure why everyone got so worked up about that guy. Sure it's disrespectful but there are way more annoying and dangerous fan behaviours that never get such a reaction.

[@hernanhernandez3861]

Matteo dropping some of the best climbers in the world after 180km and 4 mountain passes in the TdF is absolutely incredible.

[@tomsmith1059]

Tadaj the best rider in the world as far as I'm concerned but a huge shout out to Jonas for making it a race. We are lucky to have both of them.

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

We are so lucky. 🍀 👊🦋

[@heidewatzka]

So true

[@roberthotter7008]

​@heidewatzka Big time luck, and sometimes we also get some knucklehead action for entertainment

[@user-rl4fp4xq6v]

Most will not appreciate this golden age of cycling until it has long since passed. These two, and Remco, too, have made it very exciting to watch this year's tour. Totally agree

[@heidewatzka]

@@roberthotter7008 No doubt about that. Ilike when fans and experts are flip flopping like crazy.

[@johndoiron9615]

As far as I'm concerned, it's miraculous that Jonas is riding at the level he is.

[@user-en9qd5nx8w]

Jonas riding at 90% is still better than everyone except Pogi. I still think Remco may take 2nd in this Tour.

[@mattfoley6082]

Guy was in freakin' intensive care only 3 months ago. Mind-blowing..

[@doctornrsfnly]

It's not miraculous... It's very likely that visma used multiple Therapeutic Use Execmptions (TUEs) to allow Jonas to use a host of medications with known performance enhancement qualities... Froome and Wiggins both showed how TUEs can be used to allow them to take Salbutamol and Cortisone at performance enhancing doses. Given his extensive injuries is highly likely that they could get the medical clearance needed to give Jonas access to medications that in any other rider would be against the rules... This woukd allow Jonas to recover quickly and get to this level... There are NO MIRACLES in pro cycling. There is ALWAYS a reason for otherwise unbelievable performances...

[@louisvanderwalt716]

People shouting that Pogacar is doping....if that is the case, so is Vinegaard and maybe others aswell

[@makafuniruni]

@@user-en9qd5nx8w How would that happen? He is s great addition to the tour and he's riding above his level in the mountains but he still looses almost 2 minutes to Jonas today. Combine that with two insane stages to go and his history with the third week in grand tours.. I think he will safely hold on to his 3rd place but 2nd would need jonas or pogi to crash or get sick. Too bad roglic isn't there too fight him for it.

[@ahnnahargrove1354]

One comment Pogi made after the race is that his training has not been limited to the riding.. He's been working on the brains, watching and waiting like a hawk. Observing your opponent is just as important as racing him with the legs. And ad he said in his interview when he lost the sprint to JV, "I'll remember this!"

[@user-so3zx9pg7n]

He got that from the book of Jonas, but the latter has many verses still to be revealed....

[@SuppleKingdom]

I only got into professional cycling last year but gosh darn have these two years been magnificent! Thank you for helping me get up to speed on all the dynamics of racing and the riders making it happen.

[@KevwePatani]

I'm in exactly the same position, Chris and Patrick from LR have been so helpful!

[@user-en9qd5nx8w]

You started watching at a great time. This is one of the best era's of racing happening right now.

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

Good timing ⏱️ 👊🦋

[@Bob46374]

Ya this is good as it’s ever been, excitement wise

[@benjaminplant3734]

"gosh darn" ?! Bro ...

[@nathanelfrink4151]

The delivery of your insight is unmatched. This is the only post ride analysis anyone needs.

[@secretagent86]

Lamterne rouge is awesome ( but relatively unexciting )

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

Thanks 👊🦋

[@roberthotter7008]

​@@secretagent86because the guy celebrates a funeral in his basement (?) and overestimate his expertise. Mr. Horner simply got everything a true cycling fan needs to know, and he picks THE decisive moves

[@iwb70]

I wouldn't say un-exiting, it's more matter of fact. But to LR's credit he's much quicker with the upload time and has video footage. Therefore I don't watch the 🦋 👊 as much as I would like to. @@secretagent86

[@Euu_-tc6hz]

​@@roberthotter7008 no need to hate on someone when both can be great. I would say that the analysis of someone who has been part of the jumbo visma staff is always welcomed.

[@apankhurst]

Let’s also praise UAE playing right tactics today…. They followed wheels, kept their team together until the end and waited until Jonas has nothing in the tank until lighting him up… none of the silly (but exciting) attacks we sometimes see from them!

[@billmccaffrey1977]

For any rider that is doing the TDF as a first race after recovering from such a serious injury and doesn't have a full team to support them has the deck stacked against them. Jonas is demonstrating his championship talent in spite of all of this. There are a lot of miles left and my heart is behind Jonas all the way - win or loose.

[@davidmcguigan5497]

Jonas may finish second which is remarkable considering he was in ICU in April. Pogzilla is in another category this year. Great shot of destroyed Cav chugging Ketone! Thanks, Chris!

[@janweyant8902]

Pogzilla, LOL!!!! :)

[@mouraol.r.1160]

Chris, When Almeida starts to leave behind the back, he begins what is called an "Almeidada" (which means, don't worry, I'll set my pace and I'll catch everyone), I'm not kidding, that's what it's called, from Portuguese television to several European commentators. What a great stage! Thank you for your work!! Big hug. João Almeida Rules!

[@louisvanderwalt716]

Almeida surprised me

[@robinbeckford]

Yes, he looked dead but came back up to fifth at the end. 'Almeidada' exactly.

[@tonyg3091]

@@mouraol.r.1160 lol good point he does exactly that

[@fiendersPT]

He knows his limit and instead of blowing up, he backs off the pedal and starts his own pace. Hes done it in the giro which earned him a podium for the effort.

[@igor3601]

Any good cycling fan knows that when Almeida leaves the group, there is no need to be alarmed because he always comes back. We admire Joao. From the Basque Country.

[@jimtipton8888]

Tadaj is next level this year, but much respect for Jonas, especially after what he went thru. A Month ago it was questionable if he was even going to make the start this year. This will be a rivalry they will talk about for 100 years. Warriors both! Thanks Chris! Always great watching the race thru your eyes!

[@SuperNoname17]

A few weeks before the start of the tour de France 24 , "O Texugo " former top rider who won " la grand boucle " 5 times ,Bernard Hinault said in a interview that if by any reason Jonas Vingegaard will win this year's tour de France, then ,he don't understand nothing about nowadays professional cycling!! Well, even a rider that already finished his career at the end of the 1980's ,continues to show that the knowledge he's got is one of those who are top commentators!! Bravo Mr. Bernard Hinault !

[@emclesaittout3634]

Love the fact that Jonas and Tadej are aggressive riders. Too many previous years, winners were on the only strong team in the field. Hell, sometimes when they had team time trials, the entire tour was over that stage. Years ago US Postal and Sky were guaranteed winners, hiring and paying top dollar for all the best donestiques. Great to see Tadej, Jonas, Primoz, & Remco on different teams.

[@l.d.t.6327]

It’s still not ideal: uae has Yates, almeida and pog in the top 10. Visma has Jonas and Jorgensen. SQS has Remco and landa. The 3 teams have 7 riders in the top 10, that’s way too much. It means there could have been 4 more teams with a GC guy fighting for positions. Now it’s 3 teams and it’s actually most of all UAE and a bit of Visma controlling the race. 17-18 other teams are just filling the pack!

[@badsamaritansofficial6704]

Jonas is not really an aggressive rider. That is also the problem, if he comes behind. He is lacking the same punch as Pogacar so if Pog does his fueling proper he will never drop him again like last 2 years.

[@CHRoOMAX]

​@@badsamaritansofficial6704Wrong, and wrong again.

[@badsamaritansofficial6704]

@CHRoOMAX how is that wrong? He never has the same kick as Pog. When has he really ever attacked Pog the same way? Pog can still have a bad day this tour like last two years, but a proper cooled and fueled Pog is always the strongest of the two.

[@Pawsk]

@@badsamaritansofficial6704 its wrong because you confuse aggressive riding with having a great acceleration. Jonas does not have the punch Pogacar has, but he rides aggressively as in he often attacks from great distances and takes chances, always calculated chances but he takes chances. You can contrast it with someone like Froome, who had Pogacar punch but was a very defensive rider.

[@rajarunachala7516]

Jonas would’ve gotten the better of Tadej yesterday. Their tactic has worked in the past years. However this year UAE, in addition to mountain power training also worked on ‘keeping Tadej well fuelled and COOL in heat’ training! On a cool day Tadej would’ve anyway smoked Jonas! But riding this well in brutal heat is a new feather in Pogi’s cap! 🦋👊🙏

[@janefreeman995]

Yes, Tadej was hydrating behind Jonas who was not....at least at that point.

[@tonycrabtree3416]

Riding with the Yellow jersey in Stage 15 over Jonas is a new feather in Pog’s cap. Stage 7 2022 Jonas in yellow. Stage 12 2023 Jonas in yellow.

[@tonyg3091]

@@tonycrabtree3416 how about 2021?

[@eskemeldgaardkrogh4145]

@@tonyg3091 In 2021 Vingegaard was a domestique for Roglic - hardly comparable.

[@Banjoman-p7t]

And pog was only 22! Far away from the average peak performance age of 28! Jonas is basically at peak but pog won't be for 2-3 years. ​@@eskemeldgaardkrogh4145

[@nikolayrachev7593]

I am for Pogi but thanks to you Mr. Horner what a intelligent and hard pedaling cyclist is Jonas. Total credit to him for keeping the Tour alive till this stage after such a bad crash. Such a proper competition between those 2 extraordinary riders. Come on, Remco, join them 🎉

[@pelotonbrookline529]

Tadej: “hold my beer”

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

🍺🍻🦋👊

[@stuartwalker6786]

Now THAT'S smart riding from TP/UAE. Let LVB take the pressure as they are the ones that need to find the time! Fuel, hydrate and keep cool (on a hot day, which TP finds difficult). Let them fry and wait for the ONE moment (if it shows, which it did when JV looked around and TP had felt the pace dip) ....and it showed he took the greatest amount of time so far. Unlike the Strada stage where it was an ego-fest and the only smart rider out of the 3 was JV, who knew he had nothing to gain. UAE have to keep the smart riding going though as week 3 is massive and a lot can still change.

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

True that. The TdF can throw some curves at anyone. Maybe we see some bad weather come in. 🤔🦋🔥👊🇫🇷

[@MeesterJ]

Always wonder why common sense and logic is applauded as smart and innovative😂 is the knucklehead level so high in the world of cycling?

[@stuartwalker6786]

@@MeesterJ I'm 100% certain you know! Coz it ain't that common!🤣🤣 Big quads draw oxygen from the brain, if only 'common' sense was not an oxymoron🤣

[@kevinmelendez5339]

Thanks Horner, Two things are relevant here for the future. Girmay performance, and Pogacar this season by far unmatched, he has grown and mature his racing capability's, man i admire this kid a lot. He entertains a lot of that classic type of riding, "i want to go full on whatever i can"

[@amosperrine1909]

It was a gamble he had to make, given his April crash and hospital stay it is a wonder he is even riding Le Tour, let alone sitting second.

[@leomaduro8661]

That tactic of 'making the race as hard as possible' has a great risk to it, when it eats away more own your own leader than the other guy. Pogacar could sit all day watching Vingegaard's back, eating and drinking properly and wait for them to hand the lead over to Vingegaard. When you see a rider like Vingegaard, who almost never climbs standing on the pedals, going to that style to find the power he was lacking sitting, Pogacar, like any other experienced rider, knew it was to time to say goodbye... Trying to make the race hard on others, especially at those temperatures, sometimes takes the better out of yourself...

[@Zephyr653]

Massive props to Jonas for his level of fitness just 100 days after collapsing a lung, he’s inspirational. Pogi is just on a different level in 2024. His dominance is unquestioned.

[@cheechorino3710]

This is the best pogi we have ever seen at a different level

[@Kasped-xm8yz]

💉💉💉

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

I was wondering the same thing. Would love to see all the power files. 🤔🦋👊💪

[@cheechorino3710]

@@ChrisHornerCycling bro was chilling with Jonas pacing hands off the bike and all

[@rderouck]

This is the best and most complete rider we have ever seen (and I'm a Belgian)

[@roberthotter7008]

​@@rderouck You put your eyes on the right spot. Power, climbing, attacks, arodynamics, sprints, positioning in the peleton, mental strength And the strong challenge of Vingegaard made him go further than any other rider I saw

[@pgy8863]

Jonas had to try something on THIS stage, as it suited him. The Alps less so. He had a lot of time to make up so he had to start from far out and he did awesome (still crushing the record on this mountain). It showed that he doesn't have that bedrock-deep core of training/racing, but was still second to the world's best in the stage. The thing is, Tadej and Jonas are so familiar with each other that they each know what the other would do. Tadej knew the attack was coming (and when it did, no one else could follow), so Tadej braced for it, rode it out and attacked later. It was Visma's prerogative to do try and they were simply beaten by a stronger rider this time. Everyone on all sides did as well as they could and the chips have fallen. It's been an awesome race.

[@wildly_heather]

I noticed near the bottom of the climb that Tadej literally took on a can of Coke and thought, “Well, he listened to Chris and won’t bonk on this climb!”

[@christianmatheron6444]

Jonas won’t die wondering. In my opinion, he had to ride in the way he did on the final climb. There was every chance that he would find weakness if it were there by pressing for the five kilometres that he did. He must have been close to seven watts per kilo for that duration. Fact is, Tadej is supporting the hot weather, and is stronger than ever. The good news for Visma, is that Jonas has found someone new to destroy others on climbs in Matteo. His numbers for the first five kilometres on the climb must have been obscene. Both he and Wout pulling like that followed by Sepp will be an unstoppable force in the future.

[@YelCan]

Mild disagreement. Same-timing Pog on this stage was not going to happen. If JV stopped trying to drop Pog part-way up the climb, Pog would still have accelerated and used his advantage on the flatter top parts. There were two and only two outcomes once they got to the foot of the final climb: drop Pog on the steepest parts or finish a minute or so behind. What we saw today was a “climb of truth”: Pog is superior.

[@roberthotter7008]

Allowing the relatively relaxed Pog. drafting for too long brought Vingegaard in a disadvantageous situation. Given the speed that they are driving it up its pure physics. At the time of attack it was clear very quickly that Pog had managed to cope with heat and the long climbs. Vingegaard will return stronger and may those 2 stay fit and healthy

[@americosantos4324]

Not necessaraly. If pog would be against the wind instead of having the free ride it would be more balance. 20 sec probably

[@todd.goslin6190]

I thought Jonas really missed Sepp Kuss today. I don't think he wanted to have to launch his attack as early as he was forced to do.

[@jurestiplosek3018]

As Slovenian of course I cheer for Tadej. But I think Tadej knew that he needs at least a minute to go more relaxed into the last week. So he would try to take at least a half a minute from Jonas. Who really surprised me was Remco. I didn't believe that he would be there in the top 3. and not because he isn't good enough but because of the type of the rider he is. Good effort from Remco And now I know he will get even better.

[@mikemartinez4450]

Brute POWER in display. To win two gruelling back to back mountain stages is an exceptional feat in itself. Epic battle between the big three of cycling ❤🚴🚴🚴🇵🇭

[@MrBradfordchild]

I’m a Jonas fan, but Tadej has been superb! Chapeau to both men.

[@lightw1thoutheat]

Great job Chris. Been waiting for this all day since the race ended. Thank you!

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

👊🦋

[@lukadobo4769]

What an amazing stage, actually 2 in a row but this one was even better! Great tactics by Visma, but Pogi just held it and when Jonas tried again he smelled blood and went for it, that's why he is my favourite rider, that was pure instinct. Great ride by Jonas and Remco as well, but so happy for Tadej. What a monster performance! Thank you for the great analysis as always!

[@belgianbiscuit]

I am nearly 52 and, without a doubt, Pog is the most exciting rider in my lifetime. Merckx won two tours in my lifetime but obviously cannot recall that. The only rider who was possibly on par is Bernard Hinault but Pog is still young. This is one of the great cycling rivalries. May we enjoy many more, hopefully starting with Vuelta 2024. And a big shout to my man Remco. Best Belgian rider since Merckx.

[@GuntherL1]

If you're 51 and you believe that Pogacar is anywhere near clean, you haven't paid attention. These 'performances' are the most absurd I've ever seen. Not even Riis or Armstrong compare. Then again, what else could you expect from the Saunier Duval duo Gianetti-Matxin. These guys probably cheated themselves out of the womb to start with.

[@rubrshrk]

Good point about Bini's sprint, Chris.

[@CycoWarriorx]

I’m Team Pogi, but I have the utmost respect for Jonas… to not only comeback from that crash, but to be a gamer throughout the TdF speaks volumes… I can’t help but think in some stages a healthier Jonas would have this race a lot closer… Pogi’s attack on that climb was epic… especially breaking the record of the guy who’s name is stricken - from the record books… 😁🍻

[@donquique1]

Jonas broke it too by 3 minutes lol.

[@barbaroacosta5335]

​@donquique1 we are witnessing the Renaissance of cycling. Not won by the riders, but by magical nutrients in their food. 😂

[@willavinou1507]

Jonas showed he has the balls~but Tadej has the POWER!✊️ EPIC stage, and bike racing at its BEST!!!❤

[@kamolhengkiatisak1527]

Jonas not only have the balls but steel ones at that!

[@user-eh1vg8mc3n]

I'm exhausted. Tremendous commentary and analysis. Well done Chris

[@Pomi3001]

As a Pogi fan I congratulate both riders for the incredible fight, Jonas gave ot all. It is bound to go on for a quite few more years 😍

[@messier7849]

Watching Pogi in stage 15 reminded me of Lance: NO SUFFERING. He is clearly do.....well, you know.😅

[@Gowalkabout]

Thanks for your comment regarding drafting on steep climbs, Chris. I never considered how fast the pro climbers go uphill. Now I understand the draft more completely.

[@markyoung7033]

TP made a great decision when to attack JV. JV was up on his pedals and when he sat back down TP took off. Just an excellent decision and riding by TP.

[@Pomi3001]

As a Pogi fan I congratulate both riders for their incredible fight. Jonas gave it all. Hoping to watch this rivalry for quite a few more years 🤩

[@markmark2469]

Midway through the stage I was afraid the heat was going to get to Tadej but he was solid throughout. What an awesome weekend of racing this was.

[@Zek_Ken]

Not that I disliked JV, but Visma's dominance & lead defending never excited me. Now seeing him in a new light as the true underdog. He's really been fighting like a Viking warrior on his way to Valhalla.

[@ricomacpherson6845]

As always thank you for your masterful analysis and breakdown of this bike race. I especially like what your response to someone whom commented on your days At NBC Sports.

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

NBC had its up side and NBC had its down sides. I like to be able to bring you guys the inside details, where NBC likes to do a recap more often than not. I did like how many people there was to help make it happen. That made my job easier. 👊🦋

[@dropatrain]

First ever Giro-Tour-Vuelta triple on the way!

[@gideonmthembu8693]

No risk, no glory. It was good attempt by Jonas. Its better intertainment than the giro where Pogy was truly toying with that GC.

[@mattsammekull780]

Kudos to Jonas for giving it a go, and very impressive that he is, in his own words, - in even better shape than prior years doing the best ride of his life. Tadej get's well deserved credit , - but should he get even more? Before the tour pretty much everyone went on to say how impossible it is to do the Giro AND the Tour back to back. Well the Slovenian wonder is doing it, and is performing unbelievably strong. One more week though. Oh, - and Matteo Jorgenson, - has any rider ever developed as much in such a short time? Seems he went from average to elite in just a few months when signing for VLAB. Unbelievable ride yesterday from him.

[@martinyeager7948]

A second day of great mountain racing by generational talent riding to their limits behind strong team tactics. Even Evenpol with a teammate until the near the end distancing the competition is impressive. I hope this continues for the next three mountain stages with Pogacar riding defensive until the end and then going for stage wins. Maybe that is not respectful of the other teams that want a break-away win but I love that Pogacar rides for the pleasure/challenge of doing his maximum best.

[@gobears6487]

Yay! We're sitting here ready 👍🎉

[@thart6103]

Another podium for gobears! 🥉👏👏👏

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

Podium 👊🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋🧸

[@Mike-zx1kx]

I think Visma LAB and Jonas did the right thing. Day before were a stage design fitting Pogo and this stage were fitting Jonas. Had Visma and Jonas not been taking it upon themselves to be dominant in their riding, it for sure would have removed their chance of gaining time AND could easily have costed a lot more time, when Pogo could have had even more explosive power in the tank, than were the case because of the high explosive abilities. HAD they not been dominant a breakaway with lower ranked potential GC contenders, sooner or later would have gotten away and Visma would instead have been stressed by yet another agenda, they had to deal with, both on the day and potentially later on. This are a 3 week race. Jonas day to day restitution are really good. Last years have provided days in week 3 where Pogi have gone cold. It´s not over before it´s over. Wednesday will be next true battleground. and then still 2 more good shot days left. Jonas took over 7 minutes in 2 days last year and that even includes 1 TT day. Jonas, due to his accident, have not test ridden any of this years stages as he did last years. That are a massive disadvantage, not least in the 2 TT´s. Turns out that the downhill where Pogi gained his first real time were next to a training spot where Pogi had been for a prolonged period earlier and he said he had done that downhill "hundreds of times" whereas Jonas said he had not driven it at all. No wonder Jonas lost time there. Anyway. My point are that I admire Visma and Jonas for their strategy yesterday and even retrospectively I would have applied same. I cannot see a better outcome from any other strategy applied. Jonas said after that he rode one of his life´s absolute best performances watt wise! Thus he mentally and physically did an outstanding performance on the day it mattered. If that were not enough, okay, then he lost to a stronger rider on the day. If Pogo can avoid an off day rest of the tour then he most likely will win BUT he have yet to have a week 3 without one. Visma LAB and Jonas burned their matches on this stage but if not before a rest day when to? I read somewhere that Pogi had a 5% Watt increase from last year. If true it are hard to not wonder how that are possible not least considering he also rode the Giro. Anyway. 2/3 done. Let´s see how the last 1/3 goes. 3 years in a row Jonas have done the 3 weeks without having an off day. Pogi cannot say same. Race ain´t over just yet! I respect them both for their outstanding performances but I root for Jonas! Such a humble man that demonstrates sportsmanship throughout. A beast on a bike that I hope will roar! Jonas accident, lack of pro race preps, stage test rides, loss of Kuss in last second etc. It´s a testament to Jonas abilities that he are able to be where he are time wise now. Look how many quality riders that just made it inside the cut off time in very last minute. No matter what, we that watch have been gifted the best and most see worthy TdF´s last years. I bow to the sacrifices made for us to be able to watch these insane battles reaching limits of human performances!

[@baffinsansterre]

There were fireworks on Bastille day, thanks to Tadej. Looking good in yellow.

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

👊🦋💥🇫🇷

[@ranisharoni75]

In the Giro Pogi was not able to break Pantani-99 Oropa record but here he took 3:30 minutes from 98 record that many greats were not able to reach. It’s not just equipment, nutrition, fitness or even doping.. Jonas was riding 10KM without drafting and also broke Pantani (even Remco). I looked at the 98 video and there was no wind compare to strong tail wind hence Pogi was on the big ring in the last part.

[@VV_1989]

Nice research 😁👍

[@chintan055]

Thanks for the great analysis Chris! This has to be one of the most brutal stage in the recent TDF history. - Giro-Tour double looks more and more likely. - Though it didn't work out, great to see Visma going all in to win the tour. - Shout out to Cav for finishing under the time limit and hoping to win stage 36 on Tuesday (probably his last chance).

[@fathertime7864]

I can honestly respect this from Visma and JV more rather than just waiting for Pog to attack (which he will do even if he doesn't need to 😂) This shows they have confidence in JV's form. And it's probably the best stage to do so. It's hot, UAE rode a hard race in the previous stage, climb suits Jonas, worth the shot. Respectable performance from Jonas but it's Pog's year.

[@01FozzyS]

I was impressed Pogi could do a back to back mountains stage. Very strong performance in today's stage. I think this is his year.

[@Kasped-xm8yz]

This performance screams doping. Look at his numbers. Not natural💉

[@kamolhengkiatisak1527]

I am even more impressed JV does back to back mountain stage in second place after he went through grave injuries this April.

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

Pogi is looking super. 🦋💪👊

[@roberthotter7008]

​@@kamolhengkiatisak1527 you can not be a true cycling fan for Pogacar without respecting Vingegaard, who would have been extremely difficult to beat without his accident

[@ghtaboma]

Jonas, deserves bonus points for doing so well after coming back from terrible injuries!

[@counselor5286]

no one gave pogacar bonus points for coming back from injury in the 2023 tdf

[@michaelrandall9034]

@@counselor5286 Yep!!!

[@Na-zj3uk]

⁠@@counselor5286off course they did. That was also very impressing.

[@ruiteixeira6299]

@@counselor5286 Comparing the 2 injuryies !! since breaking a pulse or its was is the same as broken ribs, and punctured lung!!! but since you want to comparer then the 7:29 min that VG gave to Pogacar.

[@csarcpab]

The Landism is more alive than ever, what a TDF is Landa doing!!!

[@wiskeeamazingdancer4964]

I liked it, was the best shot for Jonas. He can't beat Pogi. He secured his 2nd place in Paris.

[@majkoldzekson]

In Nice:)

[@notitle100]

After the last two stages, it looks like we have a Pogacar V2. Especially Sunday where it was Vingegaard terrain finishing on a long hard clime, it was incredible to see how easy it was for Pogacar to sit on the wheel of Vingegaard who was giving it his all (and to his own admission rode one his best rides ever). Pogacar looked as if he was out on a Sunday stroll. Hats off to Pogacar for being on a level I don't think has ever been matched before, and hats off to Vingegaard for going down like a true champion - fighting. I also have to say that I did not expect Evenepoel to be this close to Jonas this far into the race, so well done. Even though I would love the race to be competitive to the end, I think the no. 1 spot has been taken. In contrast to the two previous years, Pogacar looks fresh and Vingegaard looks tired going into the 3rd week.

[@miguelantunes5978]

Landa and Almeida did a great job

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

Yes soler also with his return to the group before. 👊🦋

[@francisyuweh706]

yes, another mountain domestique might have been another crucial piece on this tactic. More mountain stage ahead, more chances for atks. Just hoping all these riders be safe and have a good rest day today. Last week of tdf on Tue

[@LadyBird-n2t]

Maybe.. the situation is reversed.. last 2 years, UAE were not strong enough

[@jordanburns4041]

Pogacar played that perfectly in the last 10km just follow Vingegaard and let him use his energy so when Pogacar attacks Vingegaard he can't do anything about it. Pogacar doesn't have to do anything except make sure he is following and attacking Vingegaard and unfortunately Visma's team is just not good enough to drop Pogacar.

[@lionscircle4700]

I'm thinking this is the 2nd chapter of the 2024 trilogy. If Tadej wins the TDF, will he go for the vuelta too? We know a well rested Sepp Kuss of Visma Lease a bike will be defending as well as a fresh Primoz and maybe Geraint Thomas too. Maybe Johan's supports Sepp at the Vuelta against a seemingly unstoppable Tadej in '24. THis Vuelta could be as stacked as the TDF!

[@tonilauge5786]

Because Van Barle Crash, Kreuzwig Crash, etc unlucky whole year!

[@J-cz7yv]

@@lionscircle4700not sure if Sepp and Jonas will do the vuelta. I believe Sepp and Jonas are both expecting a newborn soon.

[@richmartin1427]

@@J-cz7yvSepp was announced to do the Vuelta along with WVA.

[@francisdayon]

@@lionscircle4700Sep is 2 levels down. Stop it! JV supporting… 😅

[@gtrdd]

Tadej has been on another level this entire season 🚴💪🏼

[@gobears6487]

Ok the Cav ketone clip made me laugh! 🤣

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

Garrett’s work and some help from Frank who sent it to me. 😂👊🦋

[@timboonstra1756]

All that's left for Vingegaard to try is to get his teammates up the road in the breakaway, somehow getting off the front himself and hook and laddering his way up the groups.

[@angelamacchi977]

Jonas..! Champion!! 👏👏👏💪❤️

[@LABoyko]

Were we watching the same race?

[@angelamacchi977]

@@LABoyko … well for me, Jonas is a champion!! Courage to ride in his conditions..!!!

[@lolad.6266]

​@@angelamacchi977tambien para mi aunke no gane!!❤❤❤❤

[@robbchastain3036]

Jonas' mountain stage win over Tadej is looking to be as incredible as Greg LeMond winning the first time trial in the '89 Tour as both were previous Tour champions returning from major injuries. And yes, no Sepp and a halfway recovered Wout are challenges for Jonas, yet, if both were in top form and Jonas had not been seriously injured, this Tour might still be dominated by Tadej, no? It just seems to be his year, so far, no matter what.

[@Aidan-tu4un]

JV said that they set their tactics months ago… Pog is capable of switching tactics on the road… I think that makes a big difference!

[@rolandcolavizza5368]

I'm glad I got into cycling 5years ago when these two started to battle it out

[@jamesl195]

Agree with Chris, relative team strength in this TDF is tipped toward UAE and relative individual racer's conditioning is tipped towards Pog. Last year's Vismo team and Jonas vs this year's UAE and Pog would likely be a very very close race.

[@AbudYusuf]

Am glad to witness Messi vs Ronaldo J.vingegard vs tadej

[@nakawesiabia6311]

And Alcaraz v Novak

[@tonyg3091]

@@nakawesiabia6311 Not the same level as Rafa vs Federer

[@AlexeiRamotar]

Vingegaard is nothing short of amazing. I didn't even expect him to get top 5. Without Vingegaard this race would be like the Giro. Given Vingegaard's accident and Visma's weakness the only thing that can prevent Pogačar from winning is sickness or an accident.

[@danstanhanne1597]

Hey Chris, thanks for the analysis. In the interview Visma said they have been using the same tactics for the past two years and it worked, they said every rider excuted their load to perfection, and even on the race radio, their DS said it. I think UAE did their revision and, most especially, what happened on stage 11, it gave them the opportunity to know what form is Jonas at in this race.

[@johnauvil9664]

Great stage analysis once again!

[@qingyuhu]

Amazing TDF this year and amazing stage today. Go Pogi!

[@thenicenoise]

Waited for you my man!

[@Rune__]

It looks a lot like Pogacar will take it this year. But the last three stages are so hard, that Pogacar cannot afford to have bad days on stage 20 and 21.

[@dinkosumar369]

you forgot that Pogi live i Nice,si he knows every metar of his ussually daily trening track...It will be more than 5 min over Vingegatd at the end.. Tadej is out of this world❤❤❤❤

[@janweyant8902]

Darn! I was hoping for a win by Jonas today to keep this race CLOSE! VLB's team is challenged and not well matched with UAE this year. Wout isn't riding well, no real climbing specialist (Sepp) and a few others who are good domestiques are missing. THis makes Jonas vulnerable and puts the pressure on him to go earlier and go solo. And, although in an interview he says he had the ride of his life today, I do wonder if his fitness is what it was at last year's TdF or if Tadej is just so much better this year. And clearly Tadej has learned from last year's mistakes of bonking and overheating. Great attack on the final climb too. He looked spectacular. I think Remco is doing a great job managing his own efforts and riding his own pace (even if it means he lost time). Basically for me, there is a question mark about JOnas's fitness post-crash but he also has a huge handicap without the team he had last year.

[@ivanboesky1520]

According to his power output Vingo actually rode this climb better than any climb he rode last year and Jumbo’s team management claims he came into this Tour nearly 8 pounds lighter than last year. Don’t know if I believe that, but he does look lighter than the ‘22 and ‘23 versions.

[@codylaxton4496]

@@ivanboesky1520 I heard that he is lighter but it was due to muscle loss after the crash.

[@tonyg3091]

So Jonas himself says he rode the best in his life, but you watching from the couch are doubting his words?😂😂😂

[@kamolhengkiatisak1527]

No real climbing specialist? Jorgensen and Kelderman are climbing specialists and the former is quite good, winning Paris-Nice one week race as well as a mountain stage. Both have won a mountain stage before. You could not win a mountain ending stage if you are not a climbing specialist.

[@tonyg3091]

@@kamolhengkiatisak1527 You can. If your name is Wout van Aert

[@matthewstrauts5427]

I think we will be talking about Pogacar breaking Cavendish's stage record in several years time. He's not out there as a chore .. he loves to ride and compete.

[@fritzb.3978]

Chris! You have an excellent point on the sprint- just like car racing where you shut the door in the corner and the other guy should have been in front or taken the inside.

[@Williamgoitom]

U know why i enjoy ur show.....u speak the truth!

[@D3monSlayer77]

Very unfortunate that Jonas got injured earlier this year. He simply doesn’t have the race foundation compared to Tadej. Let’s hope for a different story next year in order to see a great battle with both riders healthy.

[@maryhallisey1016]

Can't help but see an asterisk next to pogi's win. Even with him stronger this year, I guess we'll never know....until next summer, when hopefully they are both top form.

[@aldosilva2714]

Chris deserves more subs

[@ChrisHornerCycling]

True that. 😂🦋👊

[@robbchastain3036]

How many of the sprinter protests, Chris, are the cycling equivalent of flopping in ball sports? I dig the sprinters' act of snatching victories on flat stages, but they sure can bring the drama, too. 😀

[@chinpinhon]

Well said about draughting on the slope. The speed we mere mortals do on a level road probably can't match the speed the two immortals go up the steep slope.

[@robinbeckford]

Your man Victor got one brief mention on UK tv in this stage. He looked like he was dropping on the first climb, but it turned out he was waiting to help his sprinter, who was struggling.

[@cypriano8763]

Today pogi put in the all time greatest climbing performance, without a doupt. All time VAM

[@danielgalles5956]

I've heard some comments that Pogacar's effort on the final climb might be greatest climbing performance of all time. Chris, I'd like to hear your take on how it ranks.

[@johnkolacz6231]

All answers today. And one request. Please ride the Vuelta Tadej!

[@Dogwood2556]

Once again, Chris, you demonstrate that you are flatly the best commentator on cycling. Period.

[@ResenPOWER]

As soon as I saw Tadej following Jonas acceleration without even lifting his butt from the saddle I thought it was over for Jonas.

[@JakeP2013]

This stage reminded me of the marathon ~8 hour/250k mountain stages of days gone by, not quite as long though.

[@scherzo0o]

First two weeks of this Tour have been nothing but brilliant. But the fight for the GC is now kind of settled. First four positions are kind of established - the gaps between them are significant to de-incetivise any bold moves. Sadly, Visma doesn't have the team to challenge Pogy, JV is not in the shape he has been last year, and Pogy finally has some decent team around him. So, I can only hope the last week will be about crazy attacks, breakaways, and attempts for stage wins from people outside the top 10 in GC. For the sake of the spectacle.

[@jackprier7727]

Thanks for the great detailed breakdown, much enjoyed-

[@tollph3314]

Greatest climbing performance of all time in cycling history and Jonas possibly second best too

[@ethangodridge6833]

Thanks team Horner for the analysis

[@thaidomain]

Both Pogacar and Vingegaard, and even Evenepoel, bested the past fastest ascents of the last climb, by several minutes. Probably goes to show that medical supervision and cycling material have developed a great deal the last few years. It also seems to show that ‘enhancements’, used by Armstrong and Pantani for instance, can not compete with modern day medical ‘legal’ supervision.