Hugo Houle Impresses in Breakaway on Tour de France’s Longest Stage
Hugo Houle of Astana – Premier Tech showcased his strength on the seventh stage of the Tour de France, which was the longest stage in over two decades at 249 kilometers. Despite the challenging course, Houle managed to cross the finish line in an impressive 12th place.
The breakaway was formed early on in the stage, with 28 riders, including Houle, establishing a significant gap of four minutes on the peloton. However, some teams, including UAE Team Emirates, were not satisfied with having GC favorites in the breakaway and tried desperately to close the gap.
As the stage reached its final part, the breakaway began to disintegrate. Matej Mohoric and Brent Van Moer launched separate attacks and managed to stay ahead. Houle, riding in the second chasing group alongside the yellow jersey, showcased his incredible form.
Mohoric eventually secured a solo victory in Le Creusot, while Houle finished strongly in 12th place. Houle expressed pride in his performance, stating, “I am really happy that I could get into a good breakaway like this. I was a bit short in power at the end, but I am really proud of the way I rode and the fact that I gave everything.”
Meanwhile, Alexey Lutsenko and Jakob Fuglsang, also from Astana – Premier Tech, finished in the main group, securing their positions in the General Classification.
The stage was a testament to Houle’s determination and will to give his all in the Tour de France. With his strong performance, he proved himself as a formidable rider in the breakaway.
The top three finishers of the stage were Matej Mohoric (Bahrain Victorious), Jasper Stuyven (Trek Segafredo), and Magnus Cort (EF Education – Nippo). Astana – Premier Tech’s top three riders in the stage were Hugo Houle (12th place), Alexey Lutsenko (24th place), and Jakob Fuglsang (38th place).
Photo: Getty Images
