Sepp Kuss holds 20th in Tour de France GC as Visma-Lease a Bike targets Pogačar
After nine stages of the 2026 Tour de France, Sepp Kuss remains 20th in the general classification, serving as key domestique for Jonas Vingegaard’s challenge to Tadej Pogačar’s lead. The American’s climbing skills will be tested again on Stage 10, a mountainous test where Kuss could play a decisive role in narrowing the gap.
**How did Kuss perform in Stage 9?** Stage 9, a hilly 154.6km from Malemore to Ussel, offered little opportunity for Kuss to attack. He finished 65th—1:11 behind the peloton—after a breakaway attempt with Quinn Simmons fizzled early. The stage’s four categorized climbs failed to split the general classification contenders, leaving Kuss in a supporting role.
**Why is Kuss’ position critical for Vingegaard?** Kuss’ ability to climb and conserve energy for Vingegaard is vital as the race shifts to the Pyrenees. After Stage 6, where Pogačar extended his lead, Kuss has yet to feature in a breakaway. His durability—despite a chipped tooth at Stage 7’s start and a loose crown—shows his resilience under pressure.
**What’s next for Kuss and Visma-Lease a Bike?** Stage 10 (July 14, 2026) promises high-altitude battles with three categorized climbs. Kuss’ climbing prowess could help Vingegaard regain time on Pogačar, who remains 3:20 ahead. Marc Reef, Visma’s sports director, emphasized conserving energy after two flat stages, but the team’s focus now shifts to attacking in the mountains.
**Key stats from the past two stages** - **Stage 8 (July 12, 2026):** Kuss finished 65th, 1:11 behind the peloton in a 180.4km flat stage. - **Stage 7 (July 11, 2026):** He arrived with a chipped tooth but avoided crashes, finishing 82nd in a 175.1km ride. - **Stage 6 (July 10, 2026):** Pogačar’s decisive win extended his lead; Kuss stayed in Vingegaard’s support group.
The next 48 hours will determine whether Kuss’ climbing can turn Visma-Lease a Bike’s strategy around.