Despite the pressures, Vingegaard remained composed and addressed the media with confidence regarding his race strategy.
Amidst the whirlwind of the Tour de France 2024, Jonas Vingegaard of Team Visma | Lease a Bike found himself at the center of controversy following a tense ninth stage on the challenging white roads around Troyes.
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- Tour de France 2024: Roglic’s experience and Team Visma’s tactics thwart rivals
- Pogacar’s peril: Tour de France’s yellow jersey fears the worst in Stage 9
Strategic silence in the peloton for Vingegaard
During a gripping ninth stage, both Tadej Pogacar (UAE-Emirates) and Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step) made aggressive moves, trying to break away from the peloton. Vingegaard, however, chose not to join their breakaway efforts, a decision that did not sit well with his rivals. This led to a standoff where no significant gaps were made in the general classification, leaving the leaders tightly grouped as they crossed the finish line.
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Vingegaard responds to criticism
The following day, during a press conference, Vingegaard responded to the critiques from Pogacar and Evenepoel, who had hinted at a lack of courage on his part. Vingegaard explained that his actions were not due to a lack of bravery but were a calculated decision to conserve energy and maintain a strong position in the overall standings. “It’s not about having or not having courage, it’s about racing smart,” Vingegaard stated.
The psychological warfare
Pogacar, known for his fiery competitiveness, expressed frustration over Vingegaard’s tactics, suggesting that the Danish rider was overly focused on defense rather than taking opportunities to attack. Evenepoel echoed these sentiments, pointing out that sometimes risks are necessary. Vingegaard, however, maintained that his primary goal was to follow and react rather than initiate, which he believed was the smartest approach given the race circumstances.
This dreamy photo of Evenepoel, Pogacar and Vingegaard on the gravel yesterday by @therussellellis is a thing of beauty 🚴♂️🌤️🚴♂️☁️🚴♂️😍 #TDF2024 https://t.co/U05Krteg3i pic.twitter.com/L1CsJQws0k
— Felix Lowe (@saddleblaze) July 8, 2024
Past Injuries and current form
Vingegaard also touched upon his recovery from a severe crash three months prior at the Tour of the Basque Country, which had left his form uncertain. His cautious approach in the current Tour de France was influenced by this recent history and his ongoing assessment of his physical condition. “I am riding without full certainty of my physical capabilities, which dictates a more measured approach,” he explained.
Looking ahead
Despite the controversies, Vingegaard is optimistic about his form and his chances as the race heads into the more demanding mountain stages. Positioned third in the overall standings just behind the yellow jersey, he is well-placed to make significant moves in the upcoming stages, which include both the Pyrenees and the Alps.
Staying focused
In conclusion, Jonas Vingegaard emphasized the importance of staying focused on his own race strategy rather than getting drawn into potentially costly battles prematurely. His methodical and thoughtful approach to racing, while criticized by some, has kept him in contention for the ultimate victory without unnecessary expenditure of energy.
Chrono Clash: Remco Evenepoel edges out Tadej Pogacar in Tour de France time trial thriller
This article explores Jonas Vingegaard’s response to criticism of his tactics during the ninth stage of the Tour de France 2024. Vingegaard defended his strategic choices, emphasizing the importance of racing intelligently rather than reactively. Despite facing pressure from competitors and the media, Vingegaard remains focused on his goal of winning the Tour, relying on a cautious but calculated approach to navigate the challenges of the race.
