Richard Carapaz won Stage 18 [1] of the 2026 [2] Tour de France on Thursday after a successful late breakaway attack.
The victory marks a significant shift in the general classification standings as the 113th edition [5] of the race enters its final stages. Carapaz, riding for EF Education-EasyPost, used the win to vault himself into the top 10 [4] overall.
The stage concluded at Orcières-Merlette in the French Alps [3]. Carapaz timed his attack on the final climb, allowing him to separate from the lead group and secure the win [6]. This result represents his second career Tour de France stage victory [3].
While Carapaz gained ground, the overall race lead remained unchanged. Tadej Pogacar maintained his position as the leader of the general classification following the stage [6].
The late-stage attack by Carapaz highlighted the aggressive racing strategy employed by EF Education-EasyPost in the mountainous terrain. By breaking away on the final ascent, he managed to distance his competitors and claim the stage win [1].
This victory provides Carapaz with critical momentum as the race nears its conclusion. His climb into the top 10 [4] places him in a competitive position for the final podium rankings, although Pogacar continues to hold the yellow jersey [6].
“Richard Carapaz won Stage 18 of the 2026 Tour de France on Thursday after a successful late breakaway attack.”
Carapaz's victory and ascent into the top 10 general classification indicate a late-race surge that complicates the standings for other contenders. While Tadej Pogacar retains the overall lead, the ability of a rider to make a significant jump in the rankings during Stage 18 suggests that the final podium positions remain volatile heading into the closing days of the 113th edition.
