“This is of course a very emotional win for me. Coming back from a crash, it means a lot to me after all I went through in the last few months. Winning makes me think of that. I would have never been able to do this without my family. They supported me tremendously. My wife has played a big part in my comeback. It’s only been three months from those two weeks I spent in hospital, because I was just too injured. I'm just happy to be here. I couldn't follow Tadej Pogacar's attack. It was a very strong one. I had to fight to come across. I didn't think I'd be able to make it but I did. I'm a bit surprised that I could beat him in the sprint. Three months ago, I couldn't think I'd be here fighting for a win. It is incredible that I’m back at this level in order to win a stage of the Tour de France and play for the GC. To be honest, I’m surprised. I never thought I could come back to this level. I knew I was going to be good, but not this good. Coming to the Tour de France, I had a lot of doubts and I would have never dreamt of winning a stage. Now I believe that I can win the Tour de France. Normally, I reach my highest level in the second and third week of racing. I hope this year I’ll do the same.”
