'One of the best one minute power outputs I've ever done' - Vingegaard builds further confidence

"I think I was riding really well today, and I'm happy that I stayed with him on the climb," said Vingegaard to TV 2 Sport after the stage. "I believe I've produced one of the best one-minute power outputs I've ever done. So I'm really happy with where I am, and it just proves again that I've become more explosive."

The Danish rider finished third in the uphill drag in Rouen after a fiery affair behind stage winner Pogačar and runner-up Van der Poel, but appeared satisfied with his performance and growing form.

Vingegaard highlighted the tactical decisions made during the crucial final kilometres, particularly regarding the technical descent.

"It was about being first into the descent. We knew it was tricky, so it was to keep us out of trouble," he explained. "It was UAE who controlled the pace at the end. You can have all your plans, but when they attack like that, it's about following along, and that's what we did today."

The Visma | Lease a Bike rider's comments suggest growing confidence in his explosiveness, an area where rival Pogacar has traditionally held an advantage in uphill finishes and sprints from small groups.

Despite not taking the victory, Vingegaard's ability to nearly match Pogacar on the shorter, more explosive climbs, something which Vingegaard struggled to do in the past, indicates the two-time Tour de France champion is approaching top form to compete for a third yellow jersey at the Tour.