“It’s been a big fight to catch the breakaway. Many riders wanted to be part of it. After this tussle, we didn’t have much of an advantage. I would have needed four or five minutes lead at the bottom of the Grand Colombier to have a chance to win the stage. I fought for the honour because this is the Tour de France. This race always gives me a strong desire to perform. I really wanted to come back and shine. One of my biggest regrets was to lose the polka dot jersey one the eve of the stage last stage in 2013. I rode for the KOM points today because we never know. As long as my legs will allow, I’ll go on the offensive because that’s my style, but I’ve left a lot of energy on the road today.”
