Stage 20 of the 2026 Tour de France: A Day of Triumphs and Challenges

Stage 20 of the 2026 Tour de France tested the limits of all riders involved, concluding with a thrilling day of cycling. On Saturday, Richard Carapaz, wearing the polka-dot jersey, reached his second stage triumph after an intense battle with Sepp Kuss. Unfortunately for Kuss, he suffered two crashes on the descent to Alpe d’Huez, which gave Carapaz the upper hand.

Carapaz’s Stage Victory and Mastery of the Mountains

Carapaz, originating from the Carchi province in Ecuador, showcased his incredible mountain biking skills once again, claiming another stage win at Alpe d’Huez. This victory made him the first rider since Julian Alaphilippe in 2018 to win a Tour stage while donning the polka-dot jersey. His success is a testament to his endurance and smart racing strategy, spending minimal time in drafting situations over several difficult stages.

“I must be the professional that lives at the highest altitude in the whole peloton,” Carapaz remarked last year when discussing his advantage of living at high altitudes.

These factors played to his strengths in the final mountain stages, where he emerged not just victorious but also as a frontrunner for the King of the Mountains competition.

Kuss’s Misfortune and Courageous Riding

Sepp Kuss’s attempt at glory saw misfortune as he led with a clear advantage only to crash twice during descents. Despite holding a significant lead, the American succumbed to pressure and unfortunate crashes. Though he finished third, Kuss will likely reflect on what might have been, aware that the stage could have ended more disastrously without the protective netting that guarded his fall.

Del Toro and Evenepoel’s Strong Performances

In the larger battle for podium positions, Isaac del Toro secured third place overall and the white jersey following a crucial effort on the Col de Sarenne. With support from teammate Tadej Pogačar, Del Toro outpaced his French contender Paul Seixas. This effort allowed Remco Evenepoel to push past Kuss, capturing second place on the day.

Evenepoel demonstrated his climbing prowess, answering critics with standout performances in recent mountain stages, nearing the form he showed in his Monument and Olympic triumphs.

The Grit of Mads Pedersen

Mads Pedersen secured the green jersey after relentless effort in intermediate sprints across challenging Alpine stages, solidifying his standing in the points competition reminiscent of Peter Sagan’s historic style. Despite initial setbacks, Pedersen’s determination and intelligent racing on mountainous terrain underscored his achievement.

He joins a select group of riders who have won all three Grand Tour points classifications, further cementing his legacy in the sport.

Stage 20 Top 10 and General Classification

• Richard Carapaz | EF Education Easypost (4:59:39)
• Remco Evenepoel | Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe (+26s)
• Sepp Kuss | Visma-Lease a Bike (+31s)
• Tadej Pogačar | UAE Team Emirates – XRG (+1m 5s)
• Isaac del Toro | UAE Team Emirates – XRG (+1m 5s)

The general classification after Stage 20 reflects the tremendous efforts put forth by these athletes, with Tadej Pogačar maintaining the yellow jersey.

What’s Next?

The final stage of the 2026 Tour de France will bring the riders from Thoiry to Paris. With a flat 133km course, the stage provides one last opportunity, especially for sprinters, as they eye a prestigious victory on Champs-Élysées.