Kevin Vauquelin got his Itzulia Basque Country challenge off to a strong start with the second fastest time in the opening time trial.
An undulating, 13.8-kilometre course in Bilbao put the riders to the test in warm conditions, with Vauquelin clocking an effort of 17 minutes and 32 seconds.
His time was 23 seconds back on stage winner Paul Seixas (Decathlon CMA CGM), with his compatriot moving into an early race lead with five days to go.
Vauquelin’s strong ride was also backed up by teammate AJ August, with the young American producing one of the best time trials of his career to date with the seventh fastest time. Peter Øxenberg also impressed with 23rd position.
Felix Grossschartner (UAE Team Emirates - XRG) rounded out the top-three on the day, four seconds back on Vauquelin across a tricky course which both started and finished with climbing efforts.
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Kevin Vauquelin: "The [effort] started really fast but I gave it a go. At times I felt like I was lacking a bit of energy, but I think it’s the same for everyone out there. It’s easy to get caught out but it’s a time trial, so we had to go out fast. The last three kilometres are tough, and with the headwind you can lose a lot of time. I’m happy and I’m second, so that’s good.
"I’m feeling good. I’ve had some big training weeks and trained well. I think I’m coming in in good form. In the race you never know what can happen, with the heat for example."