Simmons: "I had never won a sprint race before"

American cyclist Quinn Simmons celebrated a significant career milestone, clinching his first-ever sprint victory at the Tour of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. The win marks his first triumph in over a year, a fact that clearly resonated with the rider.

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After the Tour de France, this is the most important stage race of the year. Coming here and winning a stage is something really special, especially since it's been a year since I last raised my arms in victory.

"After the Tour de France, this is the most important stage race of the year. Coming here and winning a stage is something really special, especially since it's been a year since I last raised my arms in victory," Simmons stated after crossing the finish line.

The Lidl-Trek rider, who hails from Durango, Colorado, had entered the race, a key preparation event for the Tour de France, with ambitions of winning a stage. However, initial plans were adjusted due to the team time trial. Simmons felt he had the form to win two days prior but had to conserve energy for the team effort, aiming to "finish the job" on this particular stage.

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We are living the most important six weeks of the season, so having the confirmation that I am in top form is very reassuring. Two days ago I already thought I could win the stage, but we had to save energy for the team time trial. Today I wanted to finish the job.

Simmons acknowledged the challenging nature of the day's breakaway, which maintained only a narrow four-second lead over the peloton. "I was a little worried that they only gave us a two-minute advantage. I expected a bit more, but in the end, it worked out well for me," he commented. "The breakaway had to ride at full speed from start to finish, without being able to slow down or play cat and mouse."

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I was a little worried that they only gave us a two-minute advantage. I expected a bit more, but in the end, it worked out well for me. The breakaway had to ride at full speed from start to finish, without being able to slow down or play cat and mouse.

Reflecting on the unique nature of the victory, Simmons added, "I've actually never won a speed race in my entire career!"

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I've actually never won a speed race in my entire career!