I was a little surprised, too. Here’s the quote: “I noticed that Remco didn't want me to be there. He [Evenepoel] was afraid, because he rode the entire climb at the front. Not to win the stage, but to gain time in the general classification."

I still think it’s Pog’s race to lose. He has on occasion gone too hard in early stages. If he makes that mistake, maybe Visma can wear him down. If not, it’s all Pog. Do you think Remco can hold 2nd?

It’s a fair point.