Criterium du Dauphine: Valentin Ferron from Pierre Rolland and Warren Barguil, for a French 1-2-3 on Stage 6

Valentin Ferron (TotalEnergies) launched an audacious attack to deliver a surprise maiden WorldTour win for himself, as well as an equally unlikely second stage for his team at the Criterium du Dauphine 2022. The breakaway having been assured of the win from around 15km out, the six riders went under the flamme rouge together, all wondering who would be fastest from the select sprint finish that was sure to come. Ad/> Except for Ferron, who clearly had other ideas.

/> Critérium du Dauphiné'Phenomenal' — Ferron flies to Stage 6 victory in style at Criterium du DauphineAN HOUR AGO With 600m to go, and his companions still practically tightening their shoes, the Frenchman set off from the back of the group, through the middle of the tree-lined boulevard, securing the stage before the others even knew what had happened. Pierre Rolland (B&B Hotels) picked up second spot, with Warren Barguil (Arkea Samsic) rounding out the top three. The hilly 141km course from Rives to Gap always favoured the breakaway and as such there was plenty of early competition to make it into the day’s selection.

Wearing the polka dot jersey, Rolland could be counted on to lead the charge. The 35-year-old was keen to strengthen his grip on the King of the Mountains competition. After Alexis Vuillermoz (TotalEnergies) nicked the only point on offer on the Cote de Sainte-Eulalie-en-Royans, Rolland began collecting them on the Cote des Grands Goulets where he increased his tally by two.