Tom Pidcock moves closer to Tour de France podium

Tom Pidcock (Pinarello-Q36.5) finished in third place on stage 13 of the 2026 Tour de France, significantly improving his standing in the general classification (GC) despite not winning the stage in Belfort. His performance propelled him to fourth overall, just 4:15 behind the race leader and only nine seconds shy of the virtual podium position. Starting the day in 10th place, Pidcock was not initially expected to contend in the breakaway, particularly as it was the longest stage of the race. However, he skillfully joined a breakaway group of over thirty riders that included teammates Fred Wright, Xandro Meurisse, and Quinten Hermans.

The large break managed to create a gap of over eight minutes, allowing Pidcock to ascend in the rankings. This was despite an attempt from Bahrain Victorious to defend Lenny Martinez's ninth place overall. By the end of the stage, Pidcock had not only surpassed Martinez but also moved ahead of the riders in eighth to third position, securing his fourth place overall.

"We thought always from the start that we'd try to get in the break if we can, stay near the front, do the minimum," Pidcock explained. "There was a split, 40 of us were in the front, and from there we just rode. Everyone was collaborating. The guys did an amazing job."

On the demanding Ballon d’Alsace climb, Pidcock remained competitive and was involved in the select group of riders forming just after the peak. He aimed for the stage victory in the final sprint, but lost out when Mauro Schmid (Jayco AlUla) and Harold Tejada (XDS Astana) launched a decisive attack. Despite his efforts, Pidcock was unable to secure the win and finished third.

Reflecting on his race, Pidcock stated, "Third is frustrating but it was also a very positive day so we take everything from that."

Pinarello-Q36.5 team manager Doug Ryder remarked on Pidcock's performance: "Tom is such a fighter and he's really turned this race upside down. He's an impact rider, and our whole team gave full support, which is pretty cool."