This archive report was first published on 17 July 2019.
On July 17, 2019, Australian cyclist Caleb Ewan achieved his first Tour de France stage win in a thrilling mass sprint at Toulouse, with Frenchman Julian Alaphilippe retaining his overall lead.
According to AFP, Ewan's victory was a dream come true, and he expressed gratitude to his wife, who had supported him throughout his journey.
"When I started cycling at 10-years-old, I used to pretend that I was racing in the Tour de France, and winning it," Ewan said.
With defending champion Geraint Thomas and his Ineos teammate Egan Bernal also finishing in the pack, there was no change in the overall top three after a 167km run from Albi to Toulouse.
"It took me half the Tour de France to get my win, but I got it in the end," Ewan added.
Alaphilippe, who is vowing to defend his lead, acknowledged that Geraint Thomas is the favourite to win the Tour, citing his confidence and strength.
