Justine Ghekiere Triumphs in the Women's Tour de France Mountain Stage

Justine Ghekiere claimed victory in the seventh stage of the women’s Tour de France, conquering the toughest mountain stage in the French Alps. The Belgian cyclist executed a decisive attack to win and dedicated her triumph to her team. Kasia Niewiadoma retained the yellow jersey despite challenges.

Justine Ghekiere secured a decisive victory in the seventh stage of the women's Tour de France, marking the first significant mountain challenge in the French Alps. The 166-kilometer (103-mile) stage, the longest in the tour, witnessed the Belgian rider's remarkable climbing prowess as she broke away during the final ascent to Le Grand-Bornand.

Ghekiere, sporting the red polka dot jersey, launched a decisive move on the demanding slopes of the Col de Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, leaving behind her competitors, including Marianne Vos, and crossing the finish line solo.

Following her victory, Ghekiere expressed her astonishment, stating, "I really have no words. I think I'm dreaming. I really want to thank my team who did an incredible job helping me today." Despite a struggling performance on the mountain stage, Kasia Niewiadoma retained the yellow jersey after finishing fourth, leading Puck Pieterse by 27 seconds going into the final stage at Alpe d'Huez. Demi Vollering, unable to match Ghekiere's pace on the last climb, finished third in the stage and sits 1:15 behind Niewiadoma overall.

(With inputs from agencies.)