Ben Healy makes history as first Irishman to wear yellow jersey in 38 years

On July 11, 2025, the Tour de France witnessed a significant turning point as Ben Healy took the yellow jersey after an impressive display during Stage 10. The stage, which started in Ennezat and concluded on the Mont-Dore Puy de Sancy, was particularly challenging, featuring eight categorized climbs and substantial elevation, making it fitting for a breakaway to succeed. Healy, racing for the EF Education-EasyPost team, came third in the stage, extending his lead over the former champion Tadej Pogacar by 29 seconds, marking Healy's remarkable transition from a promising rider to a top contender in this prestigious race. Healy's performance not only showcased his grit and determination but also echoed the legacy of Irish cycling, as he became the first to wear the yellow jersey since Stephen Roche in 1987. Throughout the stage, Simon Yates emerged victorious, utilizing Healy's lead to follow closely before launching his own attack, cementing a stage win by a narrow margin. Initially, the peloton struggled to keep up as Healy and others formed a breakaway group of 29 riders, showcasing the competitive landscape of the race. Healy's strategic approach to riding—sacrificing individual stage wins to maintain the gap between himself and the chasing peloton—was a key factor in his rise to the top of the general classification. As the Tour approached its first rest day, riders reflected on the intense competition. Tadej Pogacar, the two-time defending champion, expressed hope regarding Healy's stamina for the upcoming stages, anticipating fierce confrontations in the mountainous territories. Healy has established himself as a rider to watch; his earlier triumph at the Giro d'Italia solidified his capability in long-range attacks and pursuing victories with explosiveness. The tough mountain stages and time trials of the second week present both challenges and opportunities for Healy to defend his lead. This year's Tour has been marked by unexpected developments, with several riders, including Healy, showcasing extraordinary endurance and tactical skill. The momentum leading into Stage 11, held around Toulouse, maintained tension as the cyclists prepared to tackle new climbs. The dynamics of rivalry shifted significantly with Healy's rise, prompting discussions about strategy and potential for major upsets as the competition continued. Overall, Healy's achievement marks not just his individual success but also a significant moment for Irish cycling, with hope for further performances as the race progresses.