11/07/2023

"The fatigue is gradually creeping into everyone's legs" - Louis Meintjes sees opportunity to climb few position in general classification

The GC leader for Intermarché-Circus-Wanty, Louis Meintjes completed a decent first racing block at Tour de France. The 31-year old South African has been consistently working up the ranks in the general classification, landing in 12th position after ninth stage with less than two minutes to top 10.

"The final climb was ridden like a time trial, that's how high the rhythm was from the foot to the top," said Meintjes, who crossed the finish line on mythical Puy de Dome in 24th place. "From the start in Bilbao, the level has been extremely high. But now that the fatigue is gradually creeping into everyone's legs, I can climb the rankings little by little."

"If Pogacar continues this line and collects every time, then it will be difficult for us" - Jumbo-Visma acknowledge difficulty but satisfied with first week

Meintjes is therefore very pleased with his results in the first nine stages. "It is probably the first time that I have entered the first rest day in such a good position. On one hand it is positive because the top ten is not far away, but on the other hand this position does not make it easier for me to attack," he explains.

"The goal is to improve this position over the next two weeks. Now the battle for the top ten in the general classification really begins. The toughest stages are yet to come and it will be a real tactical battle," concludes Meintjes who is defending a nice 7th place from 2022.