This is the victory of the fifth platform for the UAE during this year’s race, in which Pogacker has claimed the other four.
“This is a very special victory,” said Valence. “Everyone knows Tour de France, but many people do not win in Tour de France, so it was very beautiful.”
After three fierce days in the Pyrenees mountain, 166 remaining riders faced a transitional phase before the second and final rest day of this year’s visit.
The platform looked ready for a breakway victory and Valence felt its opportunity at the end of the three classified mountains, which was up to 55 km from the line on the Pace Do Sant.
Velnes Michael Stor, Quinn Semans and Victor Campiants emerged from a major group of eight on climbing.
The group briefly improved on the long descent for Carconson, but in a few moments, Valence attacked with 44 km and the chaser never looked like a closure of the difference.
“I liked Super today,” said Valence. “I really liked the last climb of the day. I knew that others really liked it, but I knew I had to go single. I got my moment at the top of the climb and I felt that I had legs to keep it till the end.
“I knew that I had to enjoy the moment and kept riding till the end, so I had a big difference to enjoy it and probably put my bike in the air after finishing – but I was very happy that I forgot to do it.”
