The “TGV of Clermont-Ferrand” finished third Wednesday afternoon.
Rémi Cavagna scored his tenth top three in an individual time trial at World Tour level, clocking a time of 37:55 at the end of the demanding stage 4, from Cours to Belmont-de-la-Loire, which ended up widening the gaps in the general classification.
Featuring two uphill sections, a 2.2km one right in the opening kilometers and another one at the finish, the 31.1km effort against the clock was the first key stage for the yellow jersey contenders, but also a target for the specialists. Among these, also Rémi – who started early and immediately found his rhythm. Fastest by a mile at the first checkpoint, the former French Champion continued to put in a flying ride over the second part of the course and went into the hot seat as the rider to break the 38-minute barrier.
Cavagna remained there until the final hour of the race, when two riders improved his time, bumping him into third place, still a strong result for the 27-year-old, who signed off the team’s 63rd podium of the season. In the overall standings, the same Julian Alaphilippe continues to be Soudal Quick-Step’s highest-ranked rider, in eighth place, with four stages to go at the Critérium du Dauphiné.
“I’m a bit disappointed, as I would have liked to win today, but on the other hand, given that I wasn’t at 100% these past few stages, it’s a good result to be in the top three. It’s also reassuring to see that my shape is improving and motivating for what comes next”, explained Rémi at the finish.
Photo credit: ©Dario Belingheri / Getty Images
