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The First to Congratulate Him TDF21-144
I had not seen a clear view of the finish line when I painted this (so yes, this was painted before the sprint for the line). I was touched by Andre Greipel (Israel Start Up Nation) congratulations of Wout Van Aert (Jumbo-Visma) on his surprising victory on the Champs Elysees. I also enjoyed that Greipel was reach to hug the Belgium Champion while Van Aert thought he should reach for the German Sprinter's hand. I have had that moment of familiarity confusion and I am sure you have had it to. I just like that it goes up to famous bike riders too. I wanted to make sure to paint Greipel on his last day of racing the Tour as he announced his retirement at the start of the stage. I'll miss the "Gorilla" and I will miss painting the Tour everyday. But then while Greipel won't be back next year, I will.