"I said I'd be in the right group that was riding at the front. Then, on the final climb, I asked David [Malacarne] to come with me. Then I could take the points at the top, which means that I can wear this polka-dot jersey for a few days. I know very well that this is something very important about the Tour.
"For the moment, we see that all the favourites are on the defensive, merely doing what it takes to prevent falls. I prefer to seize opportunities when the route is suitable. Maybe in the last week, I'll pay it, but I think it has never killed anyone to make such efforts."
