Sekolapedia – 24 July 2026 | ORCIÈRES-MERLETTE, France — In a breathtaking display of tactical brilliance and pure physical endurance, Ecuadorian cycling star richard carapaz delivered a masterpiece on two wheels to capture Stage 18 of the Tour de France. The 33-year-old former Giro d’Italia champion launched a perfectly timed attack on the final climb of the day, leaving his breakaway companions behind and crossing the finish line in triumphant solitude at the Orcières-Merlette ski station.
The 185.2-kilometer mountainous trek from Voiron marked the official opening of three consecutive grueling days in the Alps. Featuring an early Category 1 ascent over the Côte d’Engins before culminating at the punishing Category 1 climb to Orcières-Merlette, the stage provided the ultimate testing ground for the peloton. Amidst the high-altitude drama, richard carapaz navigated a potential disaster when he narrowly avoided a spectator standing directly on the racing line, maintaining his composure and rhythm.
With roughly three kilometers remaining until the summit, richard carapaz made his decisive move. Because he sat 10th in the overall general classification standings and did not pose an immediate threat to the coveted yellow jersey, race leader Tadej Pogačar and the other main contenders opted not to chase him down. This tactical leniency played directly into the hands of the seasoned climber, who steadily built an unassailable gap.
As he approached the finish line, an elated richard carapaz patted each side of his head in celebration, ultimately securing victory 45 seconds ahead of Swiss rider Mauro Schmid and American Matteo Jorgenson. Reflecting on his triumph, the EF Education-EasyPost rider shared his emotions with reporters, dedicating the hard-fought win to his loving family and emphasizing the immense dedication required to succeed at the highest level of professional cycling.
Meanwhile, the battle for the overall general classification remained tightly contested behind the day’s stage winner. Pogačar safely crossed the line within a select group of race favorites, which included his closest challenger, Belgian time-trial specialist Remco Evenepoel, and Pogačar’s UAE Emirates XRG teammate Isaac Del Toro. Pogačar successfully defended his commanding overall lead, maintaining a 4:32 advantage over Evenepoel, while 22-year-old Del Toro remained securely in third place, 6:51 back.
Other notable riders continued to make waves as the race neared its dramatic conclusion. American rider Quinn Simmons, competing for Lidl-Trek, maintained his impressive momentum through the Alpine stages, firmly solidifying his place inside the top 25 of the general classification standings and positioning himself for a career-best finish at the prestigious Grand Tour.
Ultimately, Thursday’s stage will be remembered as a triumphant showcase of grit, experience, and opportunism. By seizing his moment in the French Alps, richard carapaz etched another unforgettable chapter into his storied professional career, proving once again that patience and perfect execution remain the ultimate keys to Grand Tour success.
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