Eritrea’s Biniam Girmay made history as the first black African to win a Tour de France stage.
In a reduced sprint finish, the 24-year-old Girmay powered to victory in a duration of 5hrs 26mins 48secs, with Colombia’s Fernando Gaviria and Belgium’s Arnaud de Lie in second and third.
An emotional Girmay, who won his first Grand Tour stage at the Giro d’Italia in 2022 – outlined the importance of his achievement at the finish.
“I would say thanks to God for everything, for giving me all the strength and support. Since I started cycling I was never dreaming to be part of the Tour de France but now I can’t believe it. I want to say thank you to my family, my wife, Eritrea and Africa. We must be proud. Now we are part of the big races and have success. Now is our moment, now is our time. This for all Africa,” Girmay said.
A late crash on the run into Turin prevented British sprinter Mark Cavendish, who was aiming for a record 35th stage win, from contesting the final sprint, the BBC reported.
