"There is perhaps more equality than expected" - Mikel Landa completes brilliant day for Soudal - Quick-Step at Col du Galibier

Mikel Landa has performed at a high level on the first day of high mountains of the Tour de France. With Remco Evenepoel performing among the very best, Soudal - Quick-Step can also be happy with their Basque climber whilst others struggled and lost minutes to Tadej Pogacar in Valloire.

He was signed by Soudal Quick-Step to be Remco Evenepoel's luxury domestique and he has risen to the occasion on the Galibier. He accompanied the Belgian up to 800 meters from the summit, when Pogacar's attack came and then on the descent he stayed by João Almeida's side and is still well placed in the general classification for whatever may happen. In reality Evenepoel did not need the support of the veteran on the high-altitude Col du Galibier, but this double performance sees both of them high up in the overall classification after four tough stages that have started off the race.

After the stage, in statements that we have collected from Cadena Cope, the Basque commented that the pace of Pogi and UAE has been hard, but that among the big favorites there has been more equality than expected:

"They have set a very hard pace, it is true that Pogacar went, but I think the others were close, optimistic for what is left. I have to see the stage but maybe there is perhaps more equality than expected," he said. "UAE did very well. Strong pace, they have drowned everyone, Pogacar has the explosiveness to make the difference and downhill he's extended it more."

Whilst Evenepoel climbed to second in the overall classification, only 45 seconds behind Tadej Pogacar; Mikel Landa arrived a few seconds behind the Evenepoel group alongside João Almeida, and he is now 7th, 1:32 minutes down on the new race leader. It will be interesting to see how Landa will be able to perform on the high mountains later in the race and if he can aim for the podium as well.