Breathless Belgian Remco Evenepoel delivered a masterclass performance in stage 16's individual time-trial, crossing the line in a blistering 32 minutes and 19 seconds to claim his second consecutive stage win. The pace was relentless as he devoured the 26.1-kilometre course along Lake Geneva, reducing Slovenia's Tadej Pogacar's overall lead by a mere 28 seconds.
This dominant victory marked Evenepoel's fourth Tour de France stage triumph and left Pogacar reeling – the Slovenian's substantial advantage now trimmed to just 4 minutes and 32 seconds. The rest of the pack couldn't keep up with the top two, with Denmark's Mattias Skjelmose finishing over a minute adrift in third place.
Evenepoel was ecstatic, describing the win as "pretty special" on what was already a momentous day for Belgian fans – national day. His family were out in force, cheering him on from the sidelines, and he made sure to acknowledge their support with his trademark beaming smile.
But the euphoria was short-lived for Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, who suffered a crushing blow when teammate Florian Lipowitz crashed out of the race. The German rider had been fifth in the overall standings but was forced to withdraw after holding his left arm while being escorted to a medical vehicle – a heart-stopping moment that left even the bravest of fans wincing.
Evenepoel was gracious in victory, acknowledging Lipowitz's misfortune as "a bitter-sweet pill to swallow". The consequences for Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe are significant, with their general classification ambitions now hanging by a thread – a stark reminder that this Tour de France is far from over.