\n<\/p>\n
Wellens’ victory was is a fifth stage win for UAE during this year’s race, with reigning champion Pogacar claiming the other four.<\/p>\n
“It is a very special victory,” said Wellens. “Everybody knows the Tour de France but not many people win in the Tour de France, so it was very beautiful.”<\/p>\n
After three gruelling days in the Pyrenees mountains, the 166 remaining riders faced a transitional stage before the second and final rest day of this year’s Tour in Montpellier.<\/p>\n
The stage looked set for a breakaway win and Wellens sensed his opportunity on the last of the three categorised climbs, up the Pas du Sant 55km from the line.<\/p>\n
Wellens emerged from a lead group of eight on the ascent, along with Michael Storer, Quinn Simmons and Campeanaerts.<\/p>\n
The group briefly reformed on the long descent to Carcassone but, moments later, Wellens attacked with 44km to go and the chasers never looked like closing the gap.<\/p>\n
“I felt super good,” Wellens added. “On the last climb of the day I felt really good. I knew the others felt really good but I knew I had to go solo. At the top of the climb I found my moment and I felt I had the legs to keep it to the end.<\/p>\n
“I knew I had to enjoy the moment and kept riding until the finish line because I wanted a big gap to enjoy it and maybe put my bike in the air after the finish – but I was so happy I forgot to do it.”<\/p>\n
Three-time Tour winner Pogacar added: “I am more happy for him than when I win. Beyond happiness.”<\/p>\n
The race resumes on Tuesday with a 171.5km ride from Montpellier and ending with a mammoth climb up Mont Ventoux.<\/p>\n
Pogacar said: “This week was one of the hardest second weeks of the Tour that I have ridden because of the terrain, the time trial on the climb [on Friday]<\/a> and yesterday with 5,000m of elevation [gain].<\/p>\n “The gap is now big but we still have big mountains to come. We need to fight until the end.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n