The second stage of the Tour de France took the peloton to San Sebastian. A few more climbs awaited the peloton, with the Jaizkibel the highlight at the end. The peloton never lost control of a three-rider break, of which Neilson Powless was the last to be caught.

The peloton maintained a high tempo as it climbed the Jaizkibel. Around 25 favourites descended toward San Sebastian, including Van Aert, Jonas Vingegaard, Wilco Kelderman and Tiesj Benoot. The announced sprint was disrupted by a last-ditch attack from Lafay in the final kilometre. The fast-approaching Van Aert fell narrowly short of catching back the Frenchman.

"It's a shame, of course", sports director Grischa Niermann said. "Everything went pretty well today. Tadej Pogacar took some bonification seconds, but we know he is strong. Today Jonas made a strong impression, and we had four Jumbo-Visma riders in the first group. It's just that Lafay's attack was outstanding. Congratulations to him, but we would have preferred to take the stage win with Wout. Obviously, he is disappointed, which is normal. He is in good form, so there are more chances for him to win a stage."

"It was a bit of a scare when Jonas punctured at a crucial moment", added Niermann. "But all in all, he could catch up with the peloton without problems. My conclusion after today is that we have a strong team. Besides, everyone saw in Jaizkibel who the two best riders on this Tour are. We can live with the fact that Pogacar took a few bonification seconds. Every time, Jonas responded swiftly which is a good sign."

Jonas Vingegaard took confidence from the opening weekend. "After the first two stages, I am happy with my position in the GC and my fitness. I'm looking forward to the next three weeks. I am where I want to be. Although we were all disappointed after today's stage. We wanted Wout to win here. That is why I decided not to attack when I was alone at the front with Pogacar after the bonification sprint on the Jaizkibel."