Antwan Tolhoek has shown to be back during the second stage of the Tour of California. The 24-year-old rider competed for the win and finally crossed the finish line in fourth place. He’s also fourth in the general classification.

"After having been on the sideline for three months, this is a feeling to cherish", Tolhoek said afterwards. "I gave everything I had and until the last kilometre I hoped to catch Bernal and take the lead in the gc. But I just didn’t get to him.”

Sports director Merijn Zeeman praised Tolhoek. "Chapeau. After all his injuries this is an unprecedented achievement. He has reached this level without racing, but with hard and smart training. A great achievement from Antwan."

For Neilson Powless, the stage did not end as hoped. The American had to let go of the group of favourites during the ascent of Gibraltar Road. "I was very well protected by the team, and fueled well throughout the stage. I was pretty disappointed with my own performance on Gibraltar, but seeing Antwan up there was really incredible. I’m very happy for him. Unfortunately, I lost quite a bit of time today, but I’m still here to race and I am expecting some better results in the next few days."

"Neilson couldn’t follow. But that’s also part of top sport and talent development. We must remain calm, evaluate and look ahead. We have a lot of confidence in him”, Zeeman said.