The combined situation of an incredibly hot temperature and an incredibly fast day of racing meant for a stage that was not particularly enjoyable for the sprinters. For Green Jersey holder Jasper Philipsen that was no different.
“It was one of the toughest days in this Tour. I hope there won't be any more days like this," said the Alpecin-Deceuninck rider in his post-stage interview with Sporza. “We raced for a really long time today. At one point the peloton was completely broken up. I was in a good group for a long time, which was nice. It was still a fairly comfortable day, but it was difficult. It was a good day for the team, although we had no one with us in the breakaway. But there are still opportunities.”
Philipsen's teammate, Mathieu van der Poel revealed pre-stage that he had suffered a rough night due to a cold. With the Dutchman being Philipsen's main leadout man, this is potentially a worry for the sprints to come although the Belgian is remaining optimistic.
"I'm in the room with him. He had been coughing a lot the night before and his voice was almost completely gone during the ride. It's not ideal, but it's not a drama either," Philipsen explains. “Today, all riders suffered. Nobody will be at the start tomorrow with fresh legs, but there is another great opportunity on Wednesday.”
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