‘I’ve struggled the last few years’ – New approach and Classics-style racing see Mathieu van der Poel back in Tour de France yellow jersey

For half of the cycling season in the Classics, Mathieu van der Poel operates as the best rider in the world, bar perhaps only Tadej Pogačar, but for the past three Julys at the Tour de France, his highlights have been limited to leading out teammate Jasper Philipsen.

Not since his emotional victory on stage 2 of the 2021 Tour de France has he won a stage, or even really come close, but finally, after 1471 days, he returned to the top step of the Tour podium and will again wear the iconic yellow jersey after a thrilling sprint win into Boulogne-sur-Mer.