Lance Armstrong statement on why he thinks Jonas Vingegaard lost to tadej pogacar at 2024 Tour de France

Lance Armstrong’s Changing Tune on Tour de France Tactics: From Criticism to Praise

Lance Armstrong, the former seven-time Tour de France champion, has been a vocal commentator on the current race, often providing sharp critiques and keen insights.

Recently, his focus has shifted from criticism to praise as he evaluates the strategies employed by Tadej Pogačar

and UAE Team Emirates during the Tour de France, particularly highlighting their approach on the Pla d’Adet stage.

In a recent episode of his podcast, *The Move*, Armstrong lauded UAE Team Emirates for their tactical acumen on the Pla d’Adet stage.

He commended their strategic control over the race, noting their effective management of both the breakaway and their own riders.

“The tactics were good. They controlled the race, they controlled the breakaway, they have Adam Yates, they have those kind of riders. Adam Yates attacked and then Tadej,” Armstrong said, underscoring the team’s well-coordinated efforts.

Armstrong’s praise comes in stark contrast to his earlier criticisms of the team’s tactics during the Le Lioran stage.

His earlier comments had been more reserved, but his recent acknowledgment of their refined approach reflects a deeper appreciation for their strategic planning and execution.

The Texan also shed light on the intricate dynamics of high-stakes racing, particularly focusing on the interactions between Pogačar and his primary rival, Jonas Vingegaard. Armstrong highlighted the importance of minute details in their competitive exchanges.

“These guys know each other very well,” he remarked. Armstrong emphasized that subtle signs, such as changes in sweat patterns or minor discomforts, can be pivotal during climbs and attacks.

These minute observations, often imperceptible to casual viewers, can significantly influence race tactics.

Pogačar’s current 2-minute lead has placed him in a commanding position, but Armstrong cautioned that the race is far from over. He speculated on hypothetical scenarios where Vingegaard could leverage his team’s resources more effectively to challenge Pogačar’s advantage.

“Imagine a world where Vingegaard tells [Matteo] Jorgenson to slow down some,” he proposed. Despite Pogačar’s substantial lead, Armstrong acknowledged that upcoming stages and the final time trial in Nice could still shift the race’s balance.

Armstrong also called for a more aggressive approach from Vingegaard’s team, Jumbo Visma. He critiqued their current strategy, suggesting that their performance had been less impactful compared to previous years.

“This Visma | Lease a Bike is not what it was in the past,” Armstrong noted, referencing the team’s struggles with injuries and the loss of key rider Sepp Kuss. He stressed the need for a more dynamic and aggressive strategy to challenge Pogačar effectively.

As the Tour de France progresses, the tactical maneuvers of leading teams and their riders will continue to be scrutinized and analyzed.

Armstrong’s insights provide a valuable perspective on the evolving dynamics of the race, offering both praise for effective strategies and constructive criticism for areas needing improvement.