Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek) won the 17th stage of the 2025 Tour de France in Valence on Wednesday, after a sprint disrupted by a crash. The crash, which occurred just 900 meters from the finish line, disrupted the peloton and prevented several sprinters from making the final run, including Tim Merlier (Soudal-Quick Step), who was caught up in the incident and was out of contention for victory.
Milan avoids the trap and imposes itself with authority
The 24-year-old Italian sprinter managed to hold his own in this eventful finale, avoiding a crash and winning ahead of Jordi Meeus (Bora-Hansgrohe). This marked his second victory in this edition of the Tour, after the one obtained in Laval during the 8th stage, and the eighth of his season.
A tricky day well managed
The stage wasn't exactly an easy one for Milan, however. With less than 100 kilometers to go, a break in the peloton temporarily relegated him to the back. Thanks to hard work from his Lidl-Trek team, he managed to return to the main group, avoiding a disaster scenario for the green jersey wearer.
The green jersey strengthened against Pogacar
Already leading the points classification at the start of Bollène, Milan saw a comeback Tadej pogacar just 11 points behind. This stage victory allows him to regain some breathing space in the standings and strengthen his position in the race for the green jersey, while the chances for the sprinters are diminishing.
Next stage tomorrow between Vif and Courchevel Col de la Loze…
