That was probably more a plea than a demand - it’s not like Roglic has the sway of a patron. It was the first rain on those roads in long time and the riders were all feeling how treacherous the conditions had become after a number crashes. Astana says they were trying to get on the front to stay out of trouble, but riders from other teams didn’t see that way.
Just curious about why you root against the French. Did you have a bad experience there? Is it a soccer thing? I don’t want to make assumptions about your reason for that, but there’s this lame, played out thing to hate on the French that I just don’t get. When I lived in the UK, I spent a lot of time in France and had the time of my life. I didn’t experience the negative stereotypes that people told me about France, but I always approached travel as a curious and open minded guest, and trying to have great experiences. I made it a point to know enough of the language to get around, know the currency, and be mindful of local customs, etc. Being a good guest buys a lot of goodwill. I saw plenty of Americans all over Europe who approached travel in those countries in a different way, and their experiences probably mirrored their approach. Anyway, I don’t begrudge anyone their opinion. I just noticed that’s the second time you’ve mentioned wondering if you’re the only one rooting against the French. Even if you have genuine dislike for them, they haven’t had a winner since Hinault. It would be great morale for the country in a shit year to get a GC winner. There are others I’m personally rooting for, but Pinot and Alaphilippe are likable guys that I would applaud if they wore yellow into Paris.