Ahead of the stage 3 summit at Jebel Jais, where Seixas will test his climbing legs against the likes of world champion
Tadej Pogacar, the Frenchman's teammate at Decathlon AG2R La Monidiale,
Felix Gall, gave a rave review. "He’s super talented and already on a really good level," said Gall of Seixas. "When I was his age for me it was a much harder process, so it’s a bit hard for me to imagine how it is but I think he’s dealing with it super well. He seems also really relaxed and is just enjoying being here racing and taking the next steps."
Seixas himself though, is keen to play down the expectations ahead of the stage 3 summit finish. “I think we will ride for Felix, we have great hope with him," the 18-year-old insists. "He’s a very strong rider and I admire him. I hope he will get a great result and I’m here to help him so I’ll enjoy it this week."
“I’m feeling great, I had a really great altitude camp. I’m in good shape and I’m excited to race. Today is the first test," Gall adds. "I never did the climb but I will be surprised if Tadej waits for the sprint. It's not the hardest but I think he wants to go early, last 2-3kms that’s what I personally expect. Sunday is definitely much better for me but we really want to be ready when Tadej is attacking and you have to be really focused in the final as it’s not the typical mountaintop finish."
And as for Gall's expectations of Seixas? "I’m pretty sure he will be up there," the Austrian concludes. "That’s for the plan for the final that we are together."