Valverde overcomes successfully the start of the Tour de France
The first stages of each Tour of France usually bring misfortune because of falls. Nerves, tension and ambition often lead to unexpected losses of time among some favorites to wear the yellow jersey of the race. The first day of the French round followed this script with several falls that affected Froome, Porte or Adam Yates and a breakdown that prevented Nairo Quintana from finishing in the first group. Both Alejandro Valverde and Mikel Landa were able to save all the mishaps, as in the second day-with a fall within the last 3 km of the stage-.
The TTT on Monday was presumed the first day when the favorites had to take the responsibility. BMC met the forecasts and won with a meager advantage over Team Sky and Quick Step. Movistar Team, with Valverde, Landa and Quintana among the five riders that stopped the clock, finished tenth, less than 1 minute behind the winners.
Statements: We are satisfied; the loss of time is within the expected. The first part of the course was the hardest and favored us, but the second, was good for teams like Sky. We are well and we will continue fighting every day.
Photo: Bettiniphoto / Movistar Team