The Tour de France today has witnessed the return of Chris Froome to a competitive level and in the fight for a stage win, on the Alpe d'Huez - a climb where the veteran has in the past twice battled to defend a yellow jersey.
Nowadays, his ambitions are much more modest, however “I can be very happy with how I rode today," were the first words he told Wielerflits after the stage. "It is very special to be in the breakaway of the day. In addition, my wife and children are here, so it's a really special day for me".
The Israel - Premier Tech rider attacked off the peloton towards the summit of the Col du Galibier, and worked with Tom Pidcock to join the day's breakaway. He rolled along throughout the day, reaching the Alpe d'Huez with a shot of actually fighting for a stage win at the Tour.
He didn't succeed, however a strong ride as seen him cross the line in third place - his best result by far ever since his crash at the 2019 Critérium du Dauphiné. “I come from very far. It's building the road, trying to get back into the form I used to be. I want to thank my team for always believing in me and giving me this opportunity," he said.
“I have no regrets at all after today's stage. I really had nothing left in me at the end. Pidcock and Meintjes were clearly the strongest climbers of the escapees, chapeau to them!" he concluded. Having shown the form, the Briton will be hoping for another opportunity to fight for a stage win, specially carrying his rising form.
🥉 for @chrisfroome on Alpe d’Huez! It may not have been the fairy tale win but what an incredibly inspiring ride by Froomey today. Without a doubt his best ride since coming back injury and on the iconic Alpe d’Huez no less. Chapeau, Chris. This is just the start! 🇫🇷 #TDF2022
