Jerome Coppel proved that he is getting into form for the Vuelta when he finished fifth in today's Tour de l'Ain prologue. The Frenchman hopes to win a stage in the mountains as he continues to prepare for the Spanish grand tour.

Jerome Coppel was hugely disappointed when he was left off the Cofidis roster for the Tour de France but he quickly found a new goal and started to focus on the Vuelta a Espana. Today he proved that he is ready when he finished fifth in the Tour de l'Ain prologue as best non-Omega Pharma-Quick Step rider.

"I'm happy with my prologue," he told Directvelo. I have not taken enough risks in the turns to do a better result. And anyway, Gianni Meersman is a specialist in this type of effort. He is a real puncheur. For my part, I prefer when it's longer.

"From the moment I decided not to do the Tour de France, I focused on the second half of the season. My health concerns are behind me. I had a good Tour of Austria. I have a good feeling now. 

"I'm in the Tour de l'Ain to win a stage. The last two suit me pretty well. For the general classification, we'll see. I'm also here with a focus on the Vuelta and to gain some confidence."