The finish atop Les Praeres de Nava was the absolute highlight of the sixth stage. On this 3.7-kilometre climb, with an average gradient of 13 per cent and peaks of up to 24 per cent, the women with GC aspirations were able to distinguish themselves for the first time this week. Sarah Van Dam was involved in a crash, but fortunately managed to continue her way.

Ferrand-Prévot and Bunel were protected by their teammates throughout the day and started the final climb in a good position. On the steep sections, Ferrand-Prévot had to let go the GC contenders, whilst Bunel managed to stay at the front. In the slipstream of Anna van der Breggen and Paula Blasi, Bunel eventually crossed the line in third place. 

"I’m really happy with this. It feels great to reward the team’s hard work", Bunel said afterwards. "The atmosphere in the team is very good and we’ve all done our best to achieve the best possible result. I’m glad I was able to show what I’m capable of."

Bunel has moved up to third place in the general classification. She is now also leading the young riders’ classification. "I’m really motivated to hold on to this third place and see if I can achieve even more. Tomorrow, with the Angliru, another gruelling stage awaits, so anything could still happen."

Ferrand-Prévot had words of praise for her teammates after the race. "We were exactly where we wanted to be at every crucial point. The team did a truly fantastic job. At the foot of the climb, I saw Marion pass me and it seemed best to go for a good result with her. I’m really happy for her that she did so well."