Tadej Pogacar claimed victory on stage three of the 2026 Tour de France and took over the race leader’s yellow jersey from Jonas Vingegaard. The 196-kilometer stage, which began in Granollers, Spain, and finished in Les Angles in the French Pyrenees, marked the first significant mountain challenge of this year’s race.

Pogacar’s UAE Team Emirates-XRG squad controlled the race pace, limiting the breakaway’s advantage before the final climb. Mexican rider Isaac del Toro, who had previously benefited from Pogacar’s support on stage two, returned the favor by leading Pogacar up the steep closing ascent. The world champion waited until roughly 250 meters from the finish to launch a decisive attack, with Vingegaard closely following but ultimately finishing two seconds behind.

Though both riders are currently tied on overall time after three stages, Pogacar leads on countback due to stage wins and time bonuses. This places him in a strong position as he seeks to match the record of five Tour de France titles, an achievement held by only four riders in history. Pogacar expressed gratitude to del Toro for his crucial assistance, stating that it provided him with the extra power needed for the final surge.

Jonas Vingegaard, aiming for his third Tour victory after winning in 2022 and 2023, had taken the yellow jersey on the opening day following his team’s time trial win in Barcelona. Despite finishing second on stage three, Vingegaard remains a key contender as the race enters the mountainous terrain.

The stage included notable efforts from other riders, such as Alex Baudin, who briefly held the lead in the king of the mountains classification before being caught within the last 10 kilometers. British cyclist Tom Pidcock, considered a potential contender, lost ground on the final climb and finished 18 seconds behind Pogacar in 16th place.

The race’s route passed near areas affected by wildfires burning across parts of the Pyrenees. Organizers adjusted the event accordingly by restricting the publicity caravan and requesting spectators to avoid roadside gatherings in the final 40 kilometers for safety reasons. As a result, the usual large crowds were diminished in some sections, though spectators remained present in various villages along the course.

With three days completed, the dynamics between Pogacar and Vingegaard suggest a competitive contest ahead as the Tour de France progresses further into the mountainous terrain of southern France.