Clément Braz Afonso and Guillaume Martin-Guyonnet secure a double top-10 finish
# Groupama-FDJ United Achieves Impressive Double Top-10 Finish at Tour of the Basque Country
In a thrilling display of strategy and endurance, Clément Braz Afonso and Guillaume Martin-Guyonnet of the Groupama-FDJ United cycling team secured a commendable double top-10 finish in the third stage of the Tour of the Basque Country held around Basauri on Wednesday. Both riders ventured into the leading group after a fierce struggle, ultimately finishing seventh and ninth, respectively.
Following a grueling stage toward Cuevas de Mendukilo, which saw the duo contend for around twentieth place, the cyclists faced what was considered the least challenging stage of the week, albeit with 2,800 meters of climbing. Benoît Vaugrenard, the team director, commented, “Even before the start of the Tour of the Basque Country, we were targeting this stage. It was the least difficult of the week, but still tough.” He emphasized their goal to energize the race, noting, “We also knew that the time gaps created yesterday could work in our favor and that the breakaway had a chance.”
As anticipated, a competitive atmosphere enveloped the race, with riders vying for position for nearly an hour and a half. Vaugrenard explained, “There was a battle for almost 60 kilometers.” The decisive breakaway was formed by Martin-Guyonnet and Braz Afonso, along with two other riders, creating an enthralling dynamic as they surged forward.
Fifteen riders broke free with under 100 kilometers to go, first climbing a categorized ascent and heading toward the challenging Bikotx-Gane climb. The Groupama-FDJ duo remained vigilant throughout the race, but the pivotal moment came when they faced a strong challenge on a descent. “Laurance and Arrieta attacked on a descent where the pace was very high, and the guys told me they were already at their limit at that moment,” said Vaugrenard.
Despite the setback, both cyclists maintained determination. Martin-Guyonnet remarked, “We were a bit caught out when these two went on the descent, but they were very strong as well.” Though they attempted to recover in the final stretches, their efforts resulted in a 24-second gap from the leaders, with Laurance crossing the finish line first.
Reflecting on their day, Martin-Guyonnet stated, “Even if the result isn’t quite there yet, things are improving.” Vaugrenard highlighted the positive aspects of their performance, indicating that the two riders had shown competitive spirit despite the challenges faced: “It’s important to be competitive on this kind of stage.”
Looking ahead, Vaugrenard remained optimistic about potential breakaway opportunities for the team as the week progresses. Unfortunately, the team will continue the tour without Rémy Rochas, who had to withdraw following a crash on Tuesday.
In conclusion, Groupama-FDJ United not only showcased impressive teamwork and resilience but also emphasized their aspirations for continued success in this elite cycling event.
