Phoenix 24
The sprinters depart as the climbers prepare.
Chalon-sur-Saône | July 2026
Belgian cyclist Tim Merlier won the twelfth stage of the Tour de France after dominating a turbulent mass sprint in Chalon-sur-Saône. The Soudal Quick-Step rider completed the 179.1-kilometer route ahead of Dutchman Olav Kooij and fellow Belgian Jasper Philipsen.
The victory was Merlier’s third in this edition and the sixth Tour de France stage win of his career. Despite beginning the final acceleration from an unfavorable position, he found space and produced the strongest finish as several riders crashed behind him.
Colombian cyclist Fernando Gaviria was among those caught in the late accident and suffered a fractured collarbone. The incident overshadowed an otherwise controlled day for the general-classification contenders, with Tadej Pogačar retaining the yellow jersey ahead of Jonas Vingegaard.
The Tour now leaves the sprinters’ terrain and approaches the mountains. The next stage toward Belfort includes the historic Ballon d’Alsace, where the leading contenders will again be tested and the battle for overall victory could begin to intensify.
El esprint tuvo su última palabra antes de la montaña. / The sprint had its final word before the mountains.