O'Connor Wins Stage 18, Pogacar Tightens Grip

Ben O'Connor of Jayco AlUla secured a solo win on stage 18 of the Tour de France, conquering the queen stage's three demanding Alpine climbs, including the Col de la Loze, the highest point of this year's race. O'Connor finished 1 minute 45 seconds ahead of overall leader Tadej Pogacar, who extended his advantage over Jonas Vingegaard, the third-place finisher, to 4 minutes and 26 seconds. Pogacar's decisive move in the last 500 meters against Vingegaard increased his chances for a fourth Tour de France title, with only three stages left. Oscar Onley of Britain finished just behind the favorites, moving to within 22 seconds of the podium. O'Connor, whose own general classification hopes were hindered by early injuries, expressed gratitude for his team's support. The stage featured tactical battles and a dramatic finish that reinforced Pogacar's dominance in the race.