Eritrean cyclist Biniam Girmay achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Black African rider to win a stage at the Tour de France. Girmay’s remarkable victory came during the third stage of the race, where he excelled in a reduced bunch sprint, outpacing Colombian Fernando Gaviria and Belgian Arnaud de Lie, who finished second and third, respectively.

Girmay, who had already made history as the first Black African to win a grand tour stage at the 2022 Giro d’Italia, showcased his sprinting prowess once again. Timing his effort to perfection, he secured the win in a very nervy sprint, staying close to the safety barriers but keeping his cool. This victory also marked the first Tour de France win for his Intermarche-Wanty team.

“To be part of the Tour de France is already incredible. I was dreaming of taking part, and now I can’t control my emotions,” said a teary-eyed Girmay. Reflecting on his progress, he added, “With my first Tour last year, I acquired experience and I manage everything better. Winning today is unbelievable.”

Girmay’s achievement is a watershed moment for cycling’s most prestigious race. Prior to his win, only two African riders, both white – South Africa’s Robbie Hunter and Daryl Impey – had ever won stages on the Tour.

The third stage of the race was marked by significant developments. Richard Carapaz of Ecuador claimed the overall lead, becoming the first rider from his country to wear the yellow jersey. Carapaz took the jersey from Tadej Pogacar without any time differences, based on added places.

The stage was not without its drama, as pre-stage favorite Jasper Philipsen of Belgium was involved in a huge crash with 2.3 kilometers left. However, top contenders like Pogacar and defending champion Jonas Vingegaard were unaffected. Carapaz managed to fight his way to the front of the peloton, ensuring he would claim the yellow jersey.

Monday’s stage also saw France’s Fabien Grellier make a solo breakaway with 66 kilometers remaining, earning a 2,000 euro prize for the most aggressive rider of the day. However, the peloton kept him on a tight leash, reeling him in 29 kilometers from the finish line.

The race now heads into the high mountains, with the fourth stage featuring the challenging Col du Galibier, as the peloton enters France with a stage finish in Valloire after a 139.6-kilometer ride from Pinerolo. Carapaz, while celebrating his yellow jersey, acknowledged the challenge ahead, anticipating attacks from both Pogacar and Vingegaard.

“Great day for Ecuador, for me, for my team. It’s a dream, the Tour is the biggest race of the world,” Carapaz remarked. “Whether I keep the jersey a day or a week, it will be fantastic.”