“I actually wanted to pave the way for Wout van Aert”, Martin said. “After that, I was left riding alone between the leading group and the peloton. At that time, I had no other choice than to continue riding. I saved energy in the leading group. When the attacks in the final started, I noticed that my legs felt a bit tired and I knew that I would not be able to fight for the victory. From that moment on, I started looking ahead to the day of tomorrow. Another sprint arrival awaits us and that means that I can put in efforts again. I ride this Tour to assist my teammates.”

Little happened in the peloton. Steven Kruijswijk was well surrounded by his teammates and did not face any problems.

“Towards the last climb, riding in the peloton was a nervous affair”, leader Kruijswijk said. “Everyone wanted to be in the front to keep an eye on each other. In the end, the stress turned out to be all for nothing, because nothing happened on the climb.”