PARIS, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Belgian rookie Wout Van Aert claimed his first Tour de France stage victory in Monday's 10th stage, while Frenchman Julian Alaphilippe made the most of crosswinds to extend his advantage atop the overall standings.
In the 217.5km flat stage from Saint-Flour to Albi, Van Aert outsprinted Elia Viviani of Italy for his breakthrough in the world's most prestigious road cycling tournament.
"I can't believe that I've won a stage of the Tour de France. It's above anything else. Winning at my first attempt is incredible," said Van Aert.
A six-man breakaway group was formed after 12km. Their advantage over the peleton was still two minutes with 50km to go.
Alaphilippe and Deceuninck-Quick-Step teammates staged a strong attack with over 30km remaining through crosswinds and narrow roads. Then the peleton was split into three parts. With 25km to go, six riders were swallowed by the leading part of the peleton.
Team Ineos, featuring defending champion Geraint Thomas, combined with Deceuninck-Quick-Step to accelerate the pace at the front, resulting in a significantly increased gap.
Alaphilippe and Thomas didn't concede time against Van Aert. Thomas climbs to second overall, 1 minute and 12 seconds behind Alaphilippe.
"We didn't plan to split the bunch," said Alaphilippe. "We knew precisely at which kilometer there was a risk of crosswinds. There was a lot of stress and pressure in the peloton and when it split, everyone expected it. Then we did the maximum."
However, for several other potential title contenders, such as another French rider Thibaut Pinot, it was not a good day as they lost precious minutes in the stage.
Pinot, Rigoberto Uran and Jakob Fuglsang all lost 1 minute and 40 seconds. Pinot, third before Monday's race, has slumped to 11th on overall standings.
On Tuesday, riders will enjoy a rest day in Albi, the starting point of Wednesday's 11th stage en route to Toulouse in 167km.
