Merlier Strikes Again as the Tour's Fastest Man Dominates Bergerac Sprint

Tim Merlier confirmed his status as the fastest sprinter in the 2026 Tour de France by claiming a second consecutive stage victory in Bergerac. The Soudal Quick-Step rider looked boxed in during the final kilometres, but unleashed an explosive acceleration in the last 250 metres to overhaul Biniam Girmay and the rest of the field. After a long day controlled by the peloton, the expected bunch sprint delivered another thrilling finish.

The general classification remained unchanged, with Tadej Pogačar safely holding the yellow jersey ahead of Jonas Vingegaard after another calm day for the GC contenders. However, the Tour now faces a new challenge away from the racing itself: Sunday's stage has been shortened by 30 kilometres because of an intense heatwave, highlighting the extreme conditions riders have endured throughout this year's race.