France has yet to score a stage in this Tour de France, Thibaut Pinot managed to ignite French fans on the climb to Chatel. He chased after Jungels on the Pas de Morgins, got to 20 seconds before the summit but was unable to close the gap. His fourth-place finish show was pure panache earning him the daily Prix de la Comativité award and red race number for stage 10.
"I have no regrets, I really gave it my all. I'm happy to have made the racing exciting because the winner seemed decided. My attack created a bit of suspense. It's my first day with more or less good feelings. It allows me to be quite happy about the future. The two best weeks are coming, that's the main thing."
-Thibaut Pinot
"It was a crazy ride but not enough. Pinot was fourth in Chatel but you've got the proof: he continues and will continue to excite the Tour de France public."
-Groupama-FDJ team
Fears were growing in the Tour de France peloton that mandatory Covid tests ahead of Monday's rest day might lead to more withdrawals. Cofidis leader Guillaume Martin, Geoffrey Bouchard (AG2R Citroen) and Vegard Stake Laengen ( UAE), due to Covid are no longer in the race. There is a sense of unease.
"Certainly, I'm a bit worried about it. We all have a sword of Damocles hanging over our heads. We do everything we can to be very careful with a strict protocol."
-David Gaudu
"For us, there can be big consequences. It's like gangrene. When it's here, it spreads fast."
-Marc Madiot. FDJ manager
Comments