“It means a lot for me and also my country,” Milan said.

In the eighth stage of the 2025 Tour de France, Italian cyclist Jonathan Milan and Belgian rider Wout van Aert raced head-to-head in a thrilling sprint to the finish line. Source: SIPA USA / Jasper Jacobs

“I was placed in a perfect position to take this victory.

“It was a bit more relaxed and not necessary to push too hard in the sun all day.

“I have to think about if I want to spend another month away from home,” he said.

French hopes dashed again

“It was a shame for Tim (Merlier, his team’s sprinter) but he punctured in the run in,” the 25-year-old Belgian added.

The pair were awarded jointly the day’s combativity award for their efforts.

Slovenian Tadej Pogacar of UAE Team Emirates crosses the finish line of stage eight. Source: SIPA USA / Jasper Jacobs

The French Groupama-FDJ team is based in this region but their sprinter Paul Penhoet punctured 7km from home and failed to get back into the action in time for the finale.