Whilst the Team Arkéa–Samsic rider was the first to drop back from the breakaway, his companion
Rune Herregodts held put for much longer before eventually being caught a few pedal strokes from the line.
"The objective was to try to take the breakaway. I succeeded, I came out a little out of time on a descent, I I joined the guy from Wanty and Alpecin. We found ourselves at three, then at five," recalls Grondin. "When I found myself in front, the DS directly told me to aim for the polka dot jersey if I could. I was very happy to be in the breakaway because there were small storms and heavy showers, so it was a bit complicated."