Dan McLay of Fortuneo Vital Concept has said that he was not happy with his first day in the Tour De France despite finishing ninth in the first stage.
Speaking to his team's press office, he said: "In the sprint I was next to fall, I had to brake. At that time, it was over for me. I'm not happy with my first day. I was not aiming for a place in particular, I just wanted to give my all. When braking to nearly 75 km / h it is impossible to start well. "
His team mate Anthony Delaplace who was the day's most combatative rider was far happier and said: "This is an unforgettable day, I heard my name for 190 kilometers. I had time to savor even if the legs were burning me in the last 30 kilometers. We forget the pain with encouragement. Even if the break did not go after, I took great pleasure, these are rare moments in a career and I thank the people who have contributed. I knew that victory would be hard to pick because the yellow jersey at stake. We agreed at the briefing that I go into the break with a view of the polka dot jersey. I'm still rewarded for my efforts with the price of the fighting, it is not trivial to get on the podium of the Tour on his land. I love my department but my turn does not stop in the Channel. It remains of great things to do in the second and third week. With the team we will target other podiums. "
Picture copyright of CNS Sport.