Belgian sprint star Tim Merlier won the 12th stage of the 113th Tour de France on Thursday, July 16, 2026, marking his third stage victory in this year's race and sixth overall. The Soudal-Quick Step rider edged out Dutchman Olav Kooij and fellow Belgian Jasper Philipsen in a chaotic and crash-marred sprint finish.

The sprint was disorganized and further complicated when Colombian Fernando Gaviria crashed, bringing down several riders including the stage 11 winner Soren Waerenskjold. Despite Alpecin Premier Tech's efforts to set up Jasper Philipsen for the win, Merlier navigated through the traffic and powered to the chequered flag.

Stage five winner Olav Kooij finished second for the second consecutive day. Meanwhile, reigning champion Tadej Pogacar finished safely within the pack, maintaining his overall lead of more than three-and-a-half minutes over two-time former champion Jonas Vingegaard.

The 179km stage ran from the Magny-Cours motor racing circuit in Nevers to Chalon-sur-Saone. Early in the stage, three riders counter-attacked but were dropped before the final 50km. A group of 14 riders broke away in the last 35km but were caught with 24km remaining.

Sources