The Tour de France stage 16 time trial delivered another thrilling showdown as Remco Evenepoel edged out Tadej Pogacar by 28 seconds, reigniting the overall race and deepening the ongoing doping test controversy. The Olympic champion’s victory on Belgian national day cut Pogacar’s overall lead to just over four and a half minutes, setting the stage for a tense final week.
Stage 16 Time Trial Results
Evenepoel, now second overall, dominated the 21-kilometer course from Evian to Thonon-les-Bains. His performance earned him his third career Tour time trial win, sparking celebrations among Belgian fans. Pogacar, despite losing time, remains in yellow but faces growing pressure.
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| Rider | Time | Gap |
|---|---|---|
| Remco Evenepoel | 38:12 | — |
| Tadej Pogacar | 38:40 | +28s |
| Isaac del Toro | 39:15 | +1:03 |
Crash and Exit of Florian Lipowitz
The win was marred by a serious crash involving Evenepoel’s teammate, Florian Lipowitz, who fractured his collarbone after falling on a tight turn. He became the second 2025 podium finisher to leave the race in 72 hours, following Jonas Vingegaard’s exit.
Doping Test Controversy Intensifies
Off the road, a heated debate erupted over the International Testing Agency (ITA) conducting nocturnal doping tests on top riders. Pogacar and Vingegaard were visited at 2am and 5am, respectively, outside the usual testing window of 6am to 11pm. The tests, authorized by a French judge, drew sharp criticism from team managers and fans.
- Evenepoel reduces Pogacar’s lead to 4:30
- Lipowitz out with broken collarbone after crash
- ITA’s late-night tests spark ethics debate
- Remaining hard stages could shake up overall standings
What’s Next for the Tour de France?
With three high-mountain stages looming, Evenepoel warned: “It’s not over yet.” Pogacar’s team remains confident, but the time trial loss and doping distractions may affect morale. The Tour’s final days promise explosive action as riders battle fatigue and controversy.
FAQ
Who won Tour de France stage 16 2025?
Remco Evenepoel won stage 16, a time trial, beating Tadej Pogacar by 28 seconds.
What is the doping test controversy at the Tour de France?
The ITA conducted surprise nocturnal drug tests on Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard at 2am and 5am, drawing criticism for violating the usual testing window.
How much time does Evenepoel have to make up on Pogacar?
After stage 16, Evenepoel trails Pogacar by approximately 4 minutes and 30 seconds in the general classification.
The Tour de France continues with stage 17 in the Alps, where climbers will look to exploit even the smallest gaps. Stay tuned to GrandGoldman for the latest updates on cycling’s biggest race.