Remco Evenepoel Dominates Stage Five Time Trial as Tadej Pogacar Seizes Tour de France Yellow Jersey
The 2025 Tour de France delivered a thrilling shake-up on stage five as Belgium’s Remco Evenepoel powered to a commanding victory in the individual time trial, while Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar reclaimed the coveted yellow jersey.
The 33-kilometer race against the clock, set around the scenic city of Caen, lived up to its billing as a crucial test for the general classification contenders. Evenepoel, the reigning world and Olympic time trial champion, produced a near-perfect performance that not only affirmed his status as one of the best specialists in the discipline but also shifted the dynamics of the overall standings.
Riding for Soudal Quick-Step, Evenepoel was in complete control throughout the course. Averaging an astonishing 54 kilometers per hour, he surged ahead of all rivals and crossed the line 16 seconds faster than Pogacar, who himself turned in an impressive ride. Italy’s Edoardo Affini rounded out the top three, finishing 33 seconds behind the Belgian star.
“I gained positions at every checkpoint,” said an elated Evenepoel after his triumph. “The pacing was perfect and everything was on point. I’m super happy.”
Evenepoel’s smooth, aerodynamic form and strategic pacing allowed him to gain time steadily from start to finish. From the opening split, it was clear he was riding on another level. He maintained his tempo up short climbs and accelerated efficiently through the technical corners, showing both physical power and tactical intelligence.
For Tadej Pogacar, finishing second was more than just a moral victory—it earned him the leader’s yellow jersey. The UAE Team Emirates rider overtook Mathieu van der Poel in the general classification standings, cementing his position as the man to beat as the Tour heads deeper into the second week.
Pogacar’s consistent form in time trials has often been overlooked in favor of his mountain-climbing prowess, but once again he proved he is one of the most complete riders in the peloton. While Evenepoel took the stage honors, Pogacar’s performance reinforced his campaign for a fourth Tour de France title.
As the race now turns toward more mountainous terrain, the battle for the maillot jaune is heating up. With Evenepoel closing in and other GC contenders like Jonas Vingegaard waiting in the wings, fans can expect fireworks in the stages to come.
Stage five was a masterclass from Evenepoel and a statement of intent from Pogacar—setting the stage for what promises to be a captivating Tour de France.