Valentin Madouas: "To come so close to such a great victory, it's really a shame"

Podium at the Tour des Flandres last year, Valentin Madouas has taken another step up in the classics as he battled for victory and took second place today at a very challenging Strade Bianche.

"We never managed to get in on Tom Pidcock, he did a real number. We really have to congratulate him, it's incredible what he did alone in front. We put a lot of energy, but he was the strongest," the Groupama - FDJ rider said in a post-race interview.

It was a mixed day for Madouas, who explains: "Personally, I had the legs to do better today, but I fell 70 kilometers from the finish and I found myself really, very far. I had to go back alone, it made me put in a huge effort, and in the sector where Pidcock comes out, I couldn't go because I really needed to breathe. I think that's what costs me a better performance."

The crash put him on the back foot, however he managed to follow the group of favourites up Monte Sante Marie. Then the crucial split that followed, and all attacks afterwards. The Frenchman looked to be at his best level and emerged a contender for the win as the likes of compatriot Julian Alaphilippe and Mathieu van der Poel cracked.

Madouas followed the chasing groups and worked alongside, eventually blasting up Via Santa Caterina to come first of the chasers. A disappointing result seeing as he was so close to Tom Pidcock and the victory, however a strong result that confirms his great form into the spring and the work done over the winer.

"I'm really very happy with this place on the podium, it validates the winter work, but to come so close to such a great victory, it's really a shame. I'll be back in the years to come, it's obvious," Madouas concluded.