India, July 23 -- Richard Carapaz produced a brilliant solo ride to claim Stage 18 of the Tour de France 2026, launching a perfectly timed attack on the final climb to Orcieres-Merlette. The Ecuadorian rider crossed the finish line 45 seconds clear of Mauro Schmid, while overall leader Tadej Pogacar safely retained the yellow jersey after another controlled day in the mountains.
Richard Carapaz claims Tour de France Stage 18 victory
Carapaz, with the ninth Grand Tour stage win of his career, rose to 10th position overall.
The riders started fast despite the mountainous terrain testing them in the 185.2km ride from Voiron, covering 42.5km in the first hour.
Points classification leader Mads Pedersen, whose advantage was cut down to just ...