"The UAE Team is definitely going to change the pace on the next two consecutive climbs. While you still have time, eat your gels and drink your water."
"Once the climb starts, there won't be any time to refuel."
"Also, before the climb begins, make sure you're with Primož. You two need to get into a good position in the bunch beforehand."
"The UAE domestiques will all push to the front on the climb."
"Visma Team will stick right on them."
"You need to stay with at least one of them—Tadej or Jonas."
"If you really can't keep up with Tadej, at least stick with Jonas."
Just before the ascent, the instructions from Aldag came through on Huang Chong's team radio.
He quickly pulled the energy gels from his back pockets and began to wolf them down, chugging water at the same time.
On the steep slopes ahead, the water bottles had to be emptied. Any extra weight would be a huge burden on the climb.
