Romain Bardet finished 6th in the Criterium du Dauphiné after a great week that saw him win stage 5 in solo fashion. Fello captain Jean-Christophe Peraud used the race to work on his condition.

"Every year Romain (Bardet) improves, Ag2r manager Vincent Lavenu said. "It is very encouraging, especially this year. He was there with the best in the world. Without his crash which cost him 25 seconds, he would have been 3rd or 4th overall. It's great that Romain Bardet gradually approaches the top level.

"The Tour is in sight. The team is working well. I hope we will be at the same level as last year. Jicé (Péraud) still works on his condition but we know that he will be able to return to his best level soon."

"This is a very good dress rehearsal for the Tour," Bardet said. "There was a high level. The progress has allowed me to take a great victory. It was a moment that I waited for. It feels good mentally. It was a bit unexpected because I did not think that I was at my top level. 

"I'm happy with my sixth place overall. My crash has upset my plans for the weekend but the balance remains positive. I hope to be even better on the Tour. There's still some time to get ready."

"I felt immediately that it would be difficult," Peraud said. "Last year, the Dauphine was hard too. The sensations improved over the week. I feel reassured. Today, I was still there at the bottom of the last climb. I positioned Romain there and I managed my effort. My level is about the same as last year. I hope the Tour de France will also be fine. I lack some results but I try to put it into perspective."