"I leave the race tired, but with a good feeling" - Julian Alaphilippe nearing return to his best form after positive Critérium du Dauphiné

One of the bright sparks of the 2023 Critérium du Dauphiné, Soudal - Quick-Step's Julian Alaphilippe returned to winning ways and secured himself a top 10 finish in the GC. Encouraging signs prior to the Tour de France.

“I’m happy with my day and this great week of racing," says the 31-year-old Frenchman to the official website of the Soudal - Quick-Step team following the conclusion of the final stage. On the final day of racing, Alaphilippe was attacking and exciting before fading towards the end and eventually coming home in 14th position, 2:06 down on Giulio Ciccone.

"I rode fast and hard and gave everything on the final stage, but on the penultimate climb one rider was stronger than me, so there are no regrets," Alaphilippe recaps. "I leave the race tired, but with a good feeling. It was a difficult one, but important for what’s coming next this summer.”