Blel Kadri took the biggest victory of his career when he finished off a fantastic solo breakaway by winning stage 8 of the Tour de France. However, the Frenchman wasn't too comfortable in the escape as he feared Simon Yates.

When he went on the attack in stage 2, Blel Kadri rode a fantastic race that clearly proved that he is in excellent condition. Today he reaped the fruits of his excellent form when he won the first mountain stage of the Tour de France.

Kadri was part of a 5-rider breakaway before he attacked on the first climb and rode solo to the finish. However, he wasn't too sure of his chances as he was afraid of youngster Simon Yates.

“We fought a lot to catch that breakaway," he said. "It was a 40-km long effort to make it. On the way, I mostly feared Chavanel and Terpstra. I knew they would attack. So when Chavanel accelerated, I immediately went behind him. I was ready for that.

"I've realized that he wasn't that strong, so I rode away solo because I wanted to avoid the return of Simon Yates as he's a much better climber than me. I also knew that, had I stayed with Chavanel, he would have dropped me off in the downhill as this is his strong point.

"It's something crazy to win a stage at the Tour de France. I was convinced that I'd do it one day like Christophe Riblon at l'Alpe d'Huez last year. Our goal as a team was to win a stage. The polka dot jersey is the ice on the cake. I'm really happy. Now I hope that we'll see AG2R-La Mondiale at the front again in the days to come.

"I could enjoy the moment even though I did not want to sit up too early because the last climb was difficult. I did not want to sit up 500m from the line, believing that I had won, and then suddenly get passed. I stayed focused until 200 meters from the line before I let out my joy. T

"his is the day I've been waiting for and I have been fighting for this for a long time. A guy like Christophe Riblon remains an example for me and at times like today I think about him. It was my day. 

"I am very happy to bring this victory to the team AG2R La Mondiale. We always see the riders but there is a whole staff behind. I dedicate this victory to my family and all those who support me. I hope I have provided a lot of joy to people in front of their TV."