Liane Lippert wins stage two of Tour de France Femmes after rainswept drama
Thanks for joining and following along on this dramatic, and damp, stage two of the Tour de France Femmes. Here’s the stage two report: Liane Lippert of the Movistar team won stage two of the Tour de France Femmes in Mauriac, after the climbs of the Cantal proved as disruptive as predicted with multiple riders distanced in the 151.7km stage.
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Lippert speaks after winning stage two...
Lippert, soaked to the skin, looks happy but shocked at her win today. She says she was glad when it started raining as she races well in wet conditions. Speaking after her win, she said: “It will stake a bit of time to realise it [she’s won]. I’m really happy. It’s so special. I’m really happy and proud of this [winning in her national jersey].”
The stage started with a crash. How did you manage to concentrate for the finish? “I actually crashed twice: once in the neutral [start] and then on a climb. It was a bit of stress but the team did so well. Everybody was a big, big part of this. We came back after the crash and stayed calm in this rain. I always race well in the rain, so I was actually happy when it started.”
Did you think you were going to win? “I didn’t think I was going to win… I didn’t believe it even when I crossed the line. I thought maybe there was a breakaway gone or something. I still need some time to realise. I’ve been waiting so long for a win and to win at the Tour de France…I couldn’t wish for more.”
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