"When I crossed the finish line, I really didn't believe it" - Liane Lippert in ecstasy after her first Tour de France Femmes victory

Liane Lippert won her first stage in the Tour de France on Monday. The German champion turned out to be the fastest in uphill sprint of a thinned out group after a tough stage.

"There was a lot of stress today," Lippert continued. "I fell twice today, but fortunately without consequences. When it started to rain, I was actually quite happy. I immediately thought: I always do well in the rain."

"Still, I didn't think winning today was within my capabilities. My quality is on top with these kinds of arrivals, but then there is Kopecky. I focused on her wheel and got over it. When I crossed the finish line, I really didn't believe it."

The Tour de France is already a success for the Movistar rider, she concludes. "I couldn't wish for more. I have waited a very long time for this."