Pidcock Holds Firm as the Tour Hits the Alps
Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team delivers another disciplined Alpine performance as Tom Pidcock commits fully to the General Classification battle.
The Tour de France entered its decisive Alpine phase with Stage 18 from Voiron to Orcières-Merlette, a demanding 185.2-kilometre test featuring almost 4,000 metres of climbing and a summit finish.
Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team approached the stage with the ambition of once again racing aggressively, but Tom Pidcock's position in the General Classification meant every attempt to join the breakaway was immediately marked.
Unable to make the move stick, the Team quickly adapted its strategy, riding a controlled race and protecting Pidcock's position among the overall contenders throughout another demanding day in the mountains.
On the final ascent to Orcières-Merlette, Pidcock remained composed inside the GC group, successfully navigating the opening stage of the Alps before two more decisive mountain tests.
"Today was definitely not easy, although the final climb was fairly controlled. I wanted to try one more time to get into the break, but nobody wanted me there. I already knew before the stage that I was on everyone's blacklist, so it wasn't possible. When you have Richard Carapaz up the road, you cannot simply give him free time. I have too much respect for a rider like him to do that. I guess now I'll focus completely on the General Classification all the way to Paris."
Tom PidcockWith two of the Tour's toughest stages still to come, Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team remains firmly in the fight, ready to seize every opportunity as the battle for Paris reaches its climax.
Technical Insights
Q36.5 Dottore Pro Race Suit
Stage 18 was raced at an average speed of 41.72 km/h despite almost 4,000 metres of climbing. Throughout the day, Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team riders competed in the Q36.5 Dottore Pro Race Suit — the brand's most aerodynamic road racing suit, co-developed with Tom Pidcock and the Team during the off-season to maximise aerodynamic performance and comfort.
Q36.5 Dottore Termico Jacket
With the team buses positioned at the foot of the final climb, several riders, including Xabier Azparren, descended wearing the Q36.5 Dottore Termico Jacket. Designed to provide immediate thermal protection after intense efforts, it helps riders manage the rapid transition from maximum exertion to long, cold mountain descents.
