While there were many riders and teams on the losing side in today's first mountain stage of the Tour de France, Team Belkin emerged as one of the most succesful teams.

“I knew I was good, but we really did well and sitting in fourth and fifth overall now,” Ten Dam said. “To have both of us in the GC shows that we are one of the big teams, with Sky and Movistar. Contador was behind us. It was surprising. Even Rodríguez would not ride with me, I just held my tempo. I saw Contador in trouble, and attacked him.”

Bauke Mollema was equally optimistic following the events of the day.

“I was never this good before, especially in the Tour de France. Also we had Laurens up there, it was great to be there and working together. Getting the first mountain stage out of the way is a relief, but you have to be good every day. I'm happy with today and just want to enjoy it. I hope to do the same again and to keep my classification. I was surprised by Contador and Rodríguez losing time, but it was so hot and not everyone could drink enough to stay at 100 per cent.”

Robert Gesink explained that his early attack on the stage was part of a grand design.

“We spoke this morning and we decided that if there was an opportunity, I would try to attack and go as far as possible. The biggest thing is that I'm improving a lot from Corsica, it was good to feel good again. And then to have our two guys doing so well in the results is really quite extraordinary. I'm thinking about the Alps for another escape, but I'll see how the race goes tomorrow. I always get better as the race goes on, but our main objective remains with Bauke and Laurens.”