Julian Alaphilippe, winner of the 2nd stage of the Dauphiné: “The proof that I have a hard head”

“Were you scheduled to sprint for the stage today (Monday)?
No not at all. Honestly, I wasn’t thinking about winning today, but the final circuit, which didn’t look that hard on paper, wore everyone down: we lost Ethan (Vernon), our sprinter for whom it was a little too difficult, and Florian (Sénéchal) who was our second card told me just before the red flame that it was a little too tight, so I did the sprint. (Richard) Carapaz threw right in front of me and I was able to make my effort at the right time. I’m very happy.

“I haven’t felt this good in a long time”

Did you have any doubts about your ability to return to this level?
Doubts, of course there were. But when you’re going through a complicated period, the only thing to do is to question yourself and I’ve always known how to do that. Sometimes you have to know how to accept being far from your level. However, I never stopped believing in it. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have won today. It is important to have a solid head. This victory is proof that I have a hard head. I knew how to remain patient. I worked hard.

Does it give you a lot of confidence as the Tour de France approaches?
I just hope. You can’t predict anything and I’m used to adapting. Everything that’s taken is no longer to be taken, but I don’t ignite either. You have to stay calm. This is also the meaning of my gesture when crossing the line: calm, tranquil. I did not win the Tour today. I just won a nice stage in Dauphiné. But I haven’t felt this good for a long time and this victory will allow me to run even more relaxed. »