From Compiègne, the peloton headed towards Laon. Like the day before, the second stage had several small climbs. However, it was clear from the start that the stage would not end in a traditional bunch sprint. The last two kilometres were challenging and uphill. "Of course, we knew that this final was not really up my alley, but Mick van Dijke, Per Strand Hagenes, and I gave it our best shot", Kooij said.

A few kilometres from the finish line, Van Dijke led a small group to catch the three early leaders. "Mick was in a good position, but then everything came together again", Kooij said. "I was in a good position in the last kilometre, but I didn't have the legs to lead the sprint and win."

In the end, 21-year-old Kooij finished tenth, dropping to second in the general classification. "We're looking forward to the rest of the week. An arrival like today was new for me too. So I cannot be dissatisfied, we can continue with this. There are still many opportunities to come."

Tomorrow, the Team Jumbo-Visma rider will wear the sprinter's jersey for the time trial of almost sixteen kilometres. "Everything is still close, and tomorrow, the stronger time trialists will pass me. Hopefully, it will be someone from our team", Kooij concluded.

Photos: François LO PRESTI Région Hauts de France