In a moment that gripped fans around the world, Biniam Girmay suffered a late crash in the final kilometer of Stage 17 at the 2025 Tour de France. The Eritrean star, who has dazzled spectators this Tour with his explosive finishes and historic stage win earlier in the race, hit the tarmac hard just as the sprinters were preparing for a final showdown.
Despite the dramatic fall, Girmay got back on his bike — bruised but unbroken — and crossed the finish line arm-in-arm with three of his teammates from Intermarché–Wanty, receiving a massive ovation from fans who recognized the courage behind his effort.
The incident occurred as the peloton sped through a high-speed chicane with just under 900 meters to go. A slight touch of wheels mid-pack caused a ripple effect, and Girmay was caught on the wrong end of it. He tumbled to the ground, narrowly avoiding the barriers.
Medical personnel rushed to him immediately, but after a quick check and encouragement from teammates, Girmay insisted on remounting.
“The pain was there, but I didn’t want to stop. I wanted to show respect to my team and the fans,” Girmay said at the finish.
What followed was a heartwarming display of unity. Rather than chasing the sprint, his Intermarché–Wanty teammates dropped back to escort Girmay across the line — a powerful symbol of solidarity within the team.
“It wasn’t about winning today,” said teammate Laurenz Rex. “It was about making sure Biniam didn’t finish alone.”
As they rolled across the finish — battered but upright — the crowd at the barriers stood and applauded. Girmay lifted his hand in appreciation, a subtle smile breaking through the pain.
Team officials confirmed that Girmay sustained multiple abrasions on his right thigh, elbow, and shoulder but escaped without any fractures. He will undergo further evaluation overnight.
“He’s sore, but thankfully it’s nothing that will force him to abandon — for now,” said Intermarché’s team doctor.
Biniam Girmay entered Stage 17 sitting in the top 5 of the points classification, and although today’s crash may affect his sprinting power over the next few stages, he remains determined to continue.
“I’m still hungry,” he said. “The green jersey dream is alive, and I won’t give up.”
In Eritrea, where Girmay has become a national hero and source of immense pride, the news of his crash was met with concern but also admiration for his resilience.
Social media was flooded with messages of support, with one user writing,
“Even when he falls, he rises like a lion. We love you, Biniam.”
Girmay may not have crossed the line first today, but in the eyes of many, he won something more meaningful: the hearts of millions.
Stay tuned for updates on his condition ahead of Stage 18.
