Arthur Vichot has honored his role as captain. Although the Col de la Croix de Chaubouret, climbed at a brutal pace set by Team Sky, is not a climb for him, he fought to keep his place in the peloton as long as possible.

Like many other he was a victim when Geraint Thomas attacked with 3km to go but he did not crack and crossed the finish line just over a minute behind the winner Richie Porte.

It is obvious that the route of the Race to the Sun suits Vichot less than last year's and the disease he faced after the Ruta del Sol did not allow him to prepare for this as he would have wanted. That is why the performance is very promising.

He was very well supported by his teammates and had Laurent Pichon at his side in tje finale. The Frenchman will now target a stage win in the two final road stages.