the fiery atmosphere when Thibaut Pinot crossed the Petit Ballon

Leading the race, all alone on “his” ascent of the Col du Petit Ballon, Thibaut Pinot undoubtedly experienced one of the last highlights of his career, on Saturday 22 July, on the roads of the Tour de France. During the 20th stage, the Groupama-FDJ rider, who will retire at the end of the season, was carried in triumph by an exceptional crowd all along the first-category Vosges pass.

The 33-year-old was able to benefit from the fervent support of the fans, even more in the “curva del Pinot” where his fans had gathered. Hundreds of signals, smoke bombs, shouts… Third in the Grande Boucle in 2014, then unfortunate hero of the 2019 edition (retirement) while remaining in contention for the podium, Thibaut Pinot wrote his legend to the rhythm of his attacks, but also of his setbacks. The madness of the Petit Ballon for the Mélisey rider will remain one of the great highlights of this 2023 Tour.