‘It’s getting more and more mental’: Seixas ready for final Tour podium battle

Decathlon's young phenom Paul Seixas sits just 20 seconds off a Tour de France podium spot following stage 16’s individual time trial, clawing back five seconds on UAE Team Emirates-XRG’ Isaac del Toro.

The young Frenchman admitted that entering the high-pressure environment of the third week of a Grand Tour is a unique test.

"Physically, I still feel strong. I feel that my legs are still there," Seixas told Cyclism'Actu after the stage. "It's getting more and more mental. We have to fight every day."

"It's a first for me. It's not easy, but for now, I'm doing well. “Every day, we get a little closer to Paris, so naturally that gives us an even bigger mental boost each day.”

While Seixas took time back in the general classification, the day was overshadowed by a heavy crash that forced Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe’s Florian Lipowitz to abandon from fifth overall.

Rather than celebrating his gain in the standings, Seixas expressed sympathy for his fallen competitor.

"I'm not necessarily very happy with the way things have gone," Seixas admitted. "It's another opponent who's injured. That's not how we want things to go. I prefer when things happen on the pedals. It's a shame for him."

Looking ahead to the remaining tests, the Frenchman, who sits fourth overall, remains realistic about the challenge of overtaking Del Toro while competing against some of cycling’s biggest stars.

"Isaac is very, very strong. Remco and Tadej are still up there; they're great champions," he added. "I'm 20 seconds from the podium. I took five seconds today. It's a beautiful day."

As the race prepares for the final mountain showdowns, Seixas continues to draw immense support from the French fans lining the roads, who have been vocal in backing the young climber.

"The French public is the best support I have," Seixas said. "Thank you all on the side of the road. You're all incredible."

However, Seixas also urged over-enthusiastic spectators to remain cautious during the frantic roadside celebrations.

"Stay alert when you're in the middle of the road. It's sometimes scary for us too. The most important thing is that we all get home safe and sound."

"There are five stages left. Five days to fight. I'm ready, more than ever, to fight."