By finishing third in the uphill sprint on stage 4, Edward Theuns extended his overall lead in the Etoile de Besseges. However, he was disappointed to have missed out on the win.

"The team controlled the first part of the race," he told Directvelo. "Then on the final circuit, it was more difficult. Other teams tried to make echelons. I am Flemish, so I usually do well in those conditions. I was well placed in the bunch. 

"For the sprint, I started in the wheel of Tony Gallopin. I wanted to start my sprint but I was bothered by Pim Ligthart. That's why I'm disappointed. 

"My team did a good job, now it's my turn to work tomorrow in the time trial. It will not be easy. There are very good riders who are 20 or 30 behind ml. I will give the maximum. 

"In any case, this is an important and encouraging week. It is better to be in shape already in these races. I hope to be well in the Flemish races, so that's a good sign to be present already at the Etoile de Bessèges. I live in Ghent. Omloop Het Nieuwsblad starts and finishes there. I want to do this race and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne and Gent-Wevelgem. The Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, it's too early for me. I'm only 23 years old."