Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes 2026: 4th Stage in Le Puy-en-Velay

Quinn Simmons claimed victory on stage 4 of the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, winning from a 10-rider breakaway after launching the decisive sprint in the 167.4-kilometer race between Le Puy-en-Velay and Montrond-les-Bains. The American rider, the reigning U.S. road champion, beat New Zealander Finn Fisher-Black of Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe and Frenchman Matteo Vercher of TotalEnergies to the line after the lead group held off the peloton on roads crossing the Haute-Loire, Puy-de-Dôme and Loire departments.

The day once again ended in frustration for the chasing field, which appeared set to contest the stage but was unable to reel in the break. Although the escape group initially formed with 12 riders, it never gained more than 1 minute 40 seconds, as the peloton controlled the gap and kept the move within reach. The break took time to settle, assembling gradually before finally coming together after about 77 kilometers of racing.

Despite the limited advantage, the attackers proved strong enough to survive to the finish. Simmons timed his effort best in the final sprint, while pre-stage favorite Wout van Aert of Team Visma | Lease a Bike had to settle for 11th place, four seconds behind the winner. Van Aert led the peloton’s sprint, but it was not enough to catch the front group or secure the expected victory.

For the overall classification, French rider Alex Baudin of EF Education – EasyPost had a relatively quiet day and comfortably retained the yellow jersey. His lead in the general standings remained intact after the stage, allowing him to keep control of the race heading into the next day.

The result marked another reminder that a modest gap can still be decisive when a breakaway is allowed to organize and stay cohesive. With the peloton unable to fully close the distance, Simmons capitalized on the opportunity and delivered a high-profile win for Lidl – Trek.