SAINT-GERVAIS-LES-BAINS, France (AP) — Riding alone toward the host country's first victory in this Tour de France, Romain Bardet switched his focus from the road to the eyes of the spectators behind the barriers.
Unlike when he captured his first stage win in last year's Tour, Bardet wanted to fully enjoy the experience this time.
"I wanted to feel all these emotions and I wanted to enjoy my ride in the steepest part of the climb," Bardet said. "I wanted to look at the spectators and I could see their emotions in their eyes and that inspired me.