Polish rider Rafal Majka led for nearly 40 km and dominated the final stretch to win the 11th stage, while Christopher Froome is still on top of the overall standings of Tour de France.
On Wednesday, Majka, 25, surged away on the ascent of the Tourmalet, the toughest of six climbs on the 188 km stage from Pau to Cauterets-Vallee de Saint-Savin, reported Xinhua news agency.
He rode alone over the high-mountain pass at an altitude of 2,115 metres and led on to win at Cauterets.
Having won his first two stages of Tour in 2014, Majka was recognized as the best climber after winning the polka dot jersey at his first Tour last year.
Race leader Chris Froome played safe after his stage win on Tuesday that put the leader of the Sky team in firm control of the race, finishing ninth at 5:21, the same time with Majka's teammate of 2007 and 2009 champion Alberto Contador.
The 11th stage was too tough with organisers announcing that just 177 riders finished it and six riders have dropped out.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app