The race broke open early in the Champagne region. There was a fierce battle to get into the day’s leading group. Team Jumbo-Visma, among other teams, even attempted to break away. The yellow and black brigade tried to keep Vos at the front of the race on the hilly roads throughout the stage. They kept control and positioned Vos perfectly in the hilly final.
“Cecile had the best legs on the last hundred metres. I gave everything but couldn’t beat her”, Vos said. “But I’m not disappointed because I kept the yellow jersey. I had to go deep because the pace was high on the climbs. The team dropped me off perfectly, but it was a grueling final.”
The stage two winner complimented her teammates: “The team positioned me well throughout the stage. I’m glad I could close the gap after getting dropped off. In the sprint, I couldn’t do more than I did. I could not accelerate anymore. Cecile deserved this victory.”