Richard Carapaz won Stage 18 of the 2026 Tour de France on Thursday after a late breakaway in Orcières-Merlette [1, 2].
The victory marks a significant momentum shift for the 33-year-old Ecuadorian [3], though the general classification remains unchanged as Tadej Pogacar kept the overall lead [1, 2].
The mountain stage began in Voiron and concluded with a grueling ascent to Orcières-Merlette [2, 4]. This stage served as the first of three summit finishes scheduled for the 2026 edition of the race [5]. Carapaz secured his first stage win of the current tour by timing a late attack on the final climb perfectly [3, 6].
While Carapaz focused on the stage victory, the battle for the mountains classification remained a key factor. The stage offered 10 points for the climbers' jersey [5]. Pogacar's consistent performance throughout the day allowed him to defend his position at the top of the standings despite the aggressive moves from challengers [1, 2].
The race now enters its final phases with the overall lead still contested. Carapaz's ability to break away from the main group demonstrates the continuing competitiveness of veteran riders in the high-altitude stages of the Tour. Pogacar continues to manage the race pace to ensure his lead remains secure heading into the final summit finishes.
“Richard Carapaz won Stage 18 of the 2026 Tour de France on Thursday”
Carapaz's victory proves he remains a potent threat in mountain terrain, but Pogacar's ability to neutralize the attack without losing time reinforces his dominance in the general classification. With two summit finishes remaining, the race will likely be decided by whether the challengers can isolate Pogacar in the high Alps.
