Jan Bakelants (Ag2r) had not been mentioned as a contender for the uphill sprint in stage 13 of the Tour de France. However, the strong Belgian surprised most by taking third.

"I planned to be part of the breakaway because it could make it to the end," he said. "Unfortunately I missed it which is quite frustrating. When we caught them I tried to play my card. The heat did not bother me today and I could rely on a classy Romain Bardet. He is not only a leader but also a reliable teammate. I am quite satisfied with my third place.

"The gap to Van Avermaet and Sagan was big, but I was strongly hindered 500 meters from the finish line. Howeverm I would probably not have won as Sagan was also held up.

"My Tour has perhaps not been remarkable but the team's orders were clear. I had to be domestique and stay with Bardet. Today Vuillermoz had to take his chance but he did not feel well.

"I did not mind, because I felt super good, but of course I did not tell anyone about that. Bardet also helped me well, but when I wanted to launch my sprint, I had to brake because of Golas.

"It's a shame but I'm glad I could do this after three bad days.

"I am delighted that Greg won. That's good, then you can stop talking about Belgians that can't win."