"I've been looking forward to this stage all week" - Jai Hindley looking to cause damage on Dauphiné queen stage

Jai Hindley is fifth in the overall classification at the start of the toughest stage of the Criterium du Dauphiné. He's looked sharp in the hilly days and put on a surprisingly strong time-trial, all the signs point towards great form and a ride that could be very strong at the Col de la Croix de Fer.

“I can't wait. I've been looking forward to this stage all week. So we're finally here and it's going to be a very tough day," Hindley admitted to SpazioCiclismo. "The legs are good and in general I feel very strong even though we have had some difficult days. Today and tomorrow there will be long climbs and altitude, so I'm looking forward to it."

Hindley is 1:37 minutes off of Jonas Vingegaard, and 27 seconds behind second placed compatriot Ben O'Connor. In preparation for the Tour de France, the Dauphiné is a key part of the process for the leader of BORA - hansgrohe. A pure climber, who thrives in the long ascents and the high altitude, he will be a big contender to rival the race leader this afternoon. The 4000 meters of climbing will provide a launchpad for him to test his legs just weeks off his main goal of the season.

“Jonas has an excellent level at the moment. He has shown that he is very strong. Yesterday too he defended the jersey very well. At the moment he is superior to everyone, but the race isn't over yet, but there are still two days and we'll fight for it," Hindley adds. "I think that tomorrow too it will be very decisive with today on its legs. I think everyone will be fired up tomorrow: it will be the most important day."