Lippert thanks team, flat tire Kopecky and weather gods after first Tour stage win: "Always good in the rain"

Liane Lippert claims victory in the Tour de France Femmes! The 25-year-old German champion from Movistar had a disastrous day on day two, encountering two falls. However, she showed incredible resilience and delivered a fantastic sprint in the finale, convincingly beating the punctured Lotte Kopecky.

"It still has to sink in a bit before I fully realize this. I am incredibly happy," beamed Lippert in the flash interview. "This victory is very special to me, and I am extremely proud. Despite encountering falls during the neutralization and on a climb, there was some stress. However, the team performed remarkably well, and their support played a significant role in making a successful comeback."

Kudos to Movistar, and a nod to the weather gods, as the sudden pouring rain in the finale played in favor of Lippert's victory. "I'm always good in the rain, so I was actually pleased with that. I never expected to win and kept my focus on Kopecky's wheel throughout the final moments. Staying composed, I launched my attack early, as I am stronger in a long and demanding sprint. Nevertheless, I couldn't believe it when I crossed the finish line."

Lippert finds Tour already successful

"This Tour has already been a success, indeed. I've waited so long for a win," she continued. "Winning in the Tour de France, I couldn't have asked for more." With the victory, Lippert moved up to second place in the general classification, trailing the leader Kopecky by 49 seconds.