Stephane Rossetto (Cofidis) created a major surprise when he was just 2 seconds slower than winner Jerome Coppel (IAM) at the French TT championships.

"The disappointment is the dominant feeling," he told Directvelo. "I was aiming for the podium because I am in good shape. I lost the title by 2 seconds. I would rather be beaten by 30 seconds but it is cycling. I often ride in Vendée. This is a place I enjoy. In this TT you had to ride fast.

"For a year and a half I trained on the TT bike once or twice a week. It allows me to make up for my weaknesses. I try to gain power.

"Will I be at the Tour de France? I do not know. There are not many spots in the teams. We always learn about our fate a little later in the French teams.

"Arriving at Cofidis this winter, I turned a corner by doing races on the WorldTour calendar. I have a slow progression, not meteoric. This is a logical continuation for me. I signed for a year with the team. I feel very good at Cofidis. I have had good results in class 1 races."