France's Valentin Paret-Peintre (Soudal Quick-Step) ended the host nation's long wait for a win with a nail-biting Tour de France Stage 16 victory on Mont Ventoux as Tadej Pogacar (UAE Emirates-XRG) weathered the storm to strengthen his grip on the yellow jersey by two extra seconds.

Tim Wellens’ Tour de France had been excellent but understated. The Belgian national champion is arguably Pogacar’s most important domestique — both a rouleur who looks after the yellow jersey on the flat, and a strong enough climber to set a punishing initial pace at the base of climbs.

Tim Wellens overpowered his breakaway companions in brutal fashion to claim victory on Stage 15 of the Tour de France, offering yet another sign - if one was needed - of UAE Team Emirates-XRG's iron grip on the race.