American cyclist Sepp Kuss narrowly avoided a catastrophic fall during the 2026 Tour de France after crashing into the last roadside barrier before a steep cliff on Saturday's, July 25, penultimate stage. Kuss, who was leading on one of the race's demanding alpine descents, lost control of his bike while sweeping through a high-speed corner. Carrying too much speed into the bend, the 31-year-old drifted wide before slamming into a low concrete safety barrier at the edge of the road.The barrier, and a section of protective catch netting positioned just beyond it, proved to be the difference between a dramatic crash and a potential tragedy. On the other side lay a steep cliff drop, leaving little room for error.Video of the incident quickly spread online, showing Kuss colliding with the final stretch of roadside protection before coming to a stop just short of the exposed mountainside.— RNBWCV (@RNBWCV) Crash costs Sepp Kuss the race leadThe incident came during the mountain stage on Saturday, the penultimate day of the 2026 Tour de France, when riders were battling for valuable time before the final stage.According to cycling commentator Rene Bugner, Kuss had already crashed once earlier in the closing kilometres. "Sepp Kuss crashed twice in the final kilometres. Once in the tunnel and then this crash, which cost him the lead. Richard Carapaz now in front," Bugner wrote.The second crash not only ended Kuss' advantage but also handed the race lead to Ecuadorian rider Richard Carapaz.Despite the frightening impact, Kuss was able to continue, and reports indicated he escaped without serious injury.Who is Sepp Kuss?Sepp Kuss is one of America's most accomplished professional cyclists and has built a reputation as one of the strongest climbers in Grand Tour racing.Born in Durango, Colorado, on September 13, 1994, Kuss grew up participating in cross-country skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, and ice hockey before discovering road cycling while studying advertising at the University of Colorado.He turned professional in 2018 after signing with what is now Team Visma–Lease a Bike (formerly Team Jumbo-Visma). His biggest career achievement came in 2023 when he won the Vuelta a España. He has also claimed stage victories at the Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and Critérium du Dauphiné, along with victory at the 2018 Tour of Utah.