"Alaphilippe was very fast in the sprint. This is not a bad result" - Natnael Tesfation takes 3rd on stage 2 of the Critérium du Dauphiné

Continuing to impress, Natnael Tesfation achieved the first World Tour level podium of his career on stage 2 of the Critérium du Dauphiné, coming home in 3rd behind Julian Alaphilippe.

“I felt good today. I actually didn't want to take too many risks in the sprint. At one point I asked my teammates if I could sprint today. I saw that the other riders were very tired,” said the 24-year-old Eritrean in his post-race interview.

In a sprint to the line that included a proper variation of rider types, Tesfation found himself battling for the win alongside the likes of both Richard Carapaz and Sam Bennett. “It went on and off all day. It was a difficult course and therefore the pure sprinters were too tired to participate," he recaps. "Alaphilippe was very fast in the sprint. This is not a bad result. It's even a good result. I rode a good sprint.”

Concluding the interview, Tesfation gives an insight into his mental state and the supreme level of self-confidence he holds. “When I feel good, I participate in everything. Even on hilly courses. I believe in myself."