The Bradley Wiggins Show by Eurosport

Emotional winner van der Poel will make people fall in love with cycling | Cav can make it 31

06.27.2021 - By EurosportPlay

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Graham and Brad are joined by Eurosport presenter Orla Chennaoui to look back on an emotional and eventful first weekend of the Tour de France.

To begin with, the trio discusses the emotional significance of Mathieu van der Poel moving into yellow after his Stage 2 victory, wearing the jersey that eluded his grandfather, Raymond Poulidor. Wiggins said that it is the sort of moment that can make people fall in love with cycling.

For Chennaoui the brilliant performance for Van der Poel is something that anyone can appreciate, even non-cycling fans. For Wiggins, it reconfirms that he is the best in the world and he is now carrying the future of the sport in his hands, while the human side of Van der Poel is what helps elevate him in terms of public affection.

After that talk turns to Ineos Grenadiers rider Geraint Thomas. Wiggins said he expected more from Thomas so far with Ineos in general not performing as we might have expected. By contrast, Wiggins has been hugely impressed by Primoz Roglic.

Later on Wiggins “doesn't give a f***" about the fan who caused the huge pile-up on the first day whilst Chennaoui had a little bit of sympathy, pointing out that it must feel terrible that the entire race and sport are out to get you. The team agree that it seems harsh that Tony Martin is getting blame given his history.

Finally, we look ahead to Stage 3 and the possible opportunities for Mark Cavendish to make it 31 stage wins at the Tour de France. As Wiggins says "why not?", but stops short of tipping him… He’s not going to risk jinxing his mate!

The Bradley Wiggins Show is produced by Pete Burton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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