Del Toro thanks Visma, INEOS, and other teams for their respect during the Tour de France

Isaac del Toro isn’t usually the most talkative rider in the peloton, but after his first stage victory in his very first Tour de France, that’s certainly changed. Ahead of the Mexico-England football match at the World Cup, the Mexican took plenty of time to speak with the international press after the race in Barcelona.

Del Toro had already proven his worth on Saturday with a lead-out for Tadej Pogacar, who gladly returned the favor on Sunday on Montjuic. The Slovenian even seemed to hold back to let his teammate take the win so they could cross the finish line arm in arm, just ahead of yellow jersey wearer Jonas Vingegaard of Visma | Lease a Bike.

But Del Toro’s day didn’t actually go that smoothly at all. Sixty kilometers from the finish, he experienced a mechanical problem that was overlooked by his own team management. Car three was able to help him out, but as he approached the Barcelona circuit, Del Toro still had to make up a significant gap. Afterward, he had kind words for his fellow competitors.

"Yeah, that's really special. Especially because they make me feel like I'm racing on home turf. You have no idea how special it is to see all those flags. Like I said, I consider myself really lucky. I’m the only Mexican in the peloton, so when you see those flags, it’s because of me.”

"Some riders might feel pressured by that, but to me, it really feels like a huge privilege. I'm just doing my job as best I can, and this is truly incredible. Sometimes you want to give them something special in return, but this is even better."

(laughs) “I think those are two very different things. I think everyone is happy with me and with how we’re doing as a country. But soccer… everyone knows how important soccer is in Mexico. They all watch it, and it’s truly a part of our culture. So in terms of satisfaction, I think that makes them just a little bit happier, because they understand 100% what’s happening and what it means for Mexico right now. With everything going on, it would be the absolute best thing for the country to win both.”

"I'd really love to watch the game, but to be honest, I don't have the energy left today to stay up for it. I'm just way too tired. Today was full throttle, but of course I wish them all the luck in the world. They’re doing an absolutely amazing job, and everyone is giving it their all—200%. So I hope we come away with the win. I know it’s going to be a really tough game, but we’ll see what the result is tomorrow morning.”

"I had a problem with my bike and I simply didn't have time to get into a spot where I'd be clearly visible. I tried to warn the cars, but two team cars drove right past me. So yeah, there was some confusion. Fortunately, the second car from each team—especially those from Visma, INEOS, and really everyone—stopped to help me. I’m very grateful for the help they offered me. I have a lot of respect for all the teams.”

"I was just trying to keep the gap with Skjelmose as small as possible... We passed that spot twice, and the first time I already had to pass a few guys there because I was way behind. So, if I remember correctly, Skjelmose was a bit more on the right side. I decided then to go all out on the left."

"In the end, I don't think this was the plan. I know how things can turn out, and Tadej certainly didn't want to put any pressure on me. But yeah, I came here to enjoy myself, but also to perform at the very highest level. So I’m super happy that I was able to do this, even though it’s obviously a gift from the ‘GOAT.’ So yeah, I’ll carry this with me for the rest of my life.”

"I'd say we're pretty proud to have a friend like him on the team. We're together 24 hours a day, and I really appreciate the time he gives us. I also appreciate how much he wants to succeed with us, be with us, and help us get better. Thanks to him, I think the sport has really changed a bit. Plus, he pushes everyone to bring out the best in themselves. And yes, I know he sometimes doesn’t even realize these things himself because it’s so hectic, but I’m incredibly proud to be so close to such a wonderful person. He’s incredibly kind, and you can always learn something from him.”