The hard work paid off
The Frenchman’s win on the Plateau de Bonascre was impressive. Having been in the breakaway all day, he only gave up about a minute of his headstart up the final climb. In other words he rode the final climb faster than Leipheimer, Basso or Kloeden.
He’s long been a talented rider but on top of this he’s a clever rider, on and off the bike. He’s not afraid to set goals and to be be judged on whether he delivers. He’s got the mindset of a winner and it’s something many elite riders in France could copy.