'No problem, take it' - Wellens takes polka dots from Pogacar at Tour de France

The Belgian revealed in his interview with Sporza that the jersey swap was discussed with Pogačar the evening before the stage. "Last night we were talking about it. Tadej is used to wearing leader's jerseys, but I said that I would like to wear one too. 'No problem. Take it,' he said," Wellens explained.

The plan required mathematics to ensure Wellens could move into the lead. "I assumed one point would be enough, but there was discussion in the follow car," he said. "They said that with equal points I would be behind Tadej in the general classification, but I didn't think it worked that way. They checked it and then confirmed."

Wellens executed an easy attack during the stage to secure the necessary points, but only after checking with his fellow riders. "Fortunately, there were kind colleagues who let me ride," he said about his attacking move. "I asked if it was okay, and it was allowed, as long as I came back. Afterwards, I dutifully waited for the rest."

The Belgian acknowledges there might be favours to return in the coming days. "Everything comes back in life, right? If they need something in the coming days, I'll let them pass."

When asked if wearing polka dot jersey was a goal for him, Wellens responded with humour. "No, that's certainly not a goal. We're here for the team classification," he laughed. "No, I'm joking. The yellow jersey is the main thing, but I will be very proud tomorrow."

The move also provides strategic benefits for Pogacar, reducing his ceremonial obligations. When questioned about whether avoiding ceremonies was part of the plan, Wellens clarified: "Tadej also likes riding around in a leader's jersey. But it's true that rest is important in the Tour."