1998 - Pantani's Dominant Stage 15

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Stage 15 of the 1998 Tour de France was a pivotal moment in Marco Pantani's career, showcasing his exceptional climbing skills in the Alps. The stage, which ended at Les Deux Alpes, featured four major climbs, including the infamous Col de la Croix de Fer and Col du Galibier. Despite challenging weather conditions with cold temperatures and rain, Pantani's performance was outstanding. He attacked decisively on the Galibier, leading to a solo victory and capturing the yellow jersey from Jan Ullrich. Pantani's dominance in this stage was marked by his strategic riding and endurance. He navigated the treacherous descents and final climb effectively, capitalizing on Ullrich's misfortunes, including a puncture and hypoglycemia. Pantani's win by almost two minutes over the next competitor underscored his climbing prowess and secured his position as a top contender for the overall victory. This stage remains one of the most memorable in Tour history, highlighting Pantani's technical skill and mental toughness in adverse conditions.