Romain Bardet triumphs for the first time on Tour de France.
Under the sweltering sun of Rimini, Italy, Romain Bardet, racing his final Tour de France, triumphed in the first stage of the 2024 Tour, securing the yellow jersey for the first time in his storied career.
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Bardet’s strategic masterstroke
Romain Bardet, at 34, showed no signs of slowing down as he launched a decisive attack 52 kilometers from the finish line, at the ascent of San Leo. This move, marking his final appearance in the Tour, was a bold statement from the veteran who is set to retire in 2025. Joined by his DSM-Firmenich PostNL teammate, Frank van den Broek, and other breakaway companions, Bardet’s tactical prowess was on full display.
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The final sprint
As the race neared its climax, the lead group’s advantage over the chasing peloton began to dwindle, but Bardet and van den Broek, who was awarded the most combative rider of the stage, managed to maintain a narrow gap. They crossed the finish line just five seconds ahead of the pack, with Wout van Aert securing the third spot. This slim margin underscored the fierce competition and strategic racing that defined the day.
THE EMOTIONS 😍
Incredible ride from @romainbardet to take the stage win after superb support by Frank van den Broek – what an epic team performance! 👏🏻
Not a bad start to your last @LeTour, Romain…and your first, Frank!🥹#KeepChallenging #TDF2024 pic.twitter.com/iE7ChD46bs
— Team dsm-firmenich PostNL (@dsmfirmpostnl) June 29, 2024
Bardet’s emotional victory
For Bardet, wearing the yellow jersey was a long-held dream, one he had almost resigned to never achieving. His emotional victory was not just a personal triumph but a moment of vindication, proving his enduring capabilities and determination. His statement post-race highlighted the significance of this achievement, not just for him but for his team as well.
The stage’s challenges
The route from Florence to Rimini, described by Tour director Christian Prudhomme as “one of the toughest in Tour history,” lived up to its daunting reputation. With a total of 3,600 meters of climbing over seven ascents and 206 kilometers, the stage tested the riders’ endurance and climbing abilities. The brutal heat added to the challenge, affecting many competitors, including noted sprinters who struggled with the day’s demanding conditions.
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This victory not only places Bardet in a favorable position for the upcoming stages but also sets a high competitive standard for the rest of the Tour. As the peloton prepares for more grueling days ahead, all eyes will be on Bardet to see if he can continue to defy expectations and perhaps end his Tour de France career on a high note.
