This Sunday, when the temperature was almost 30°C, the riders had to show lots of courage and self-sacrifice to make it through. During this much-feared 15th stage with the breathtaking climb of the Grand-Colombier, Guillaume Martin was giving his best right until the finish line, just like he did since the beginning of this race.
The support of Jesus
However, the leader of Cofidis team had to slow down just before the Grand-Colombier pass due to a mechanical problem that forced him to change his bike. But he was able to benefit from the precious work of Jesus Herrada. The Spanish vice-champion, who was part of the day's breakaway, had previously come first and then second in the first two climbs of the day. Then, he accompanied Martin into the first foothills of the Grand-Colombier.
After, Guillaume did everything he could to keep up with the impressive pace imposed by the Jumbo-Visma. He finished 14th of the stage, 3 min 25 sec from the winner, Tadej Pogacar. In the general classification, Guillaume Martin gets closer to the 'top 10' (11th at 6'45'') and remains 1st Frenchman.
Now, he will focus on recovering during the rest day on Monday. Then, it will be time to look forward to another intense week, with the Alps and the Jura on the program before heading to the Champs-Elysées.
|