"I didn't think Onley and Johannessen would come back" - Florian Lipowitz miscalculates and nearly loses podium

Florian Lipowitz had a relatively lonely afternoon on stage 18. The German climber who entered the day as third overall was distanced by first two men on Col de la Madeleine and continued on alone until the subsequent valley. And moments after he caught up, the Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe attacked the group. But he must've imagined it differently than to get stuck in a long chasse pattate. Ultimately, he paid for his efforts and saw his advantage over 4th overall Oscar Onley dwindle considerably.

"It was a super tough day. I felt good. When I joined Jonas and Pogi's group in the valley before the final climb, they were looking at each other. I tried to climb at my own pace but I think I just ran out of energy on the last climb."

Even though he was left behind on the Col du Galibier, Oscar Onley managed to get back in and managed his effort better than the German, to make up a lot of time: "I didn't think Onley and Johannessen would come back. They were very strong, so I take my hat off to them."

Now with 22 seconds separing Lipowitz and Onley in the battle for Paris podium, a lot can happen. And while there are three stages left to race, the decision can be made already in the shortened stage 19 with finish on La Plagne. "Tomorrow will be another difficult stage. I hope I can recover. I did my best today. I can't change anything, we'll see tomorrow."

Although it haven't worked out very well thus far this race, Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe can still lean back on a two-leader strategy since Primoz Roglic remains 5th overall despite his gap having grown on Col de la Loze as he also couldn't keep up with the resurrected Onley. Lipowitz still thinks their numbers can be advantage on Friday. "Primoz also showed he's strong. I think we'll make a plan for tomorrow."

Florian Lipowitz continues to lead the white jersey competiton where Oscar Onley is again his main rival. After another lesser day, third Kevin Vauquelin is already 5 minutes further in that classification.