Today, the riders faced a twelve-kilometer individual time trial on the flat roads of Abu Dhabi. In yesterday’s opening stage, Kooij and Vermote were already not feeling one hundred percent fit. As a result, the two riders did not start today’s stage. 

“It was clear yesterday that Olav and Julien were struggling,” explained sports director Jesper Mørkøv. “They managed to finish the first stage, but we decided not to let them start today’s time trial. It’s unfortunate, but it was the right decision.” 

In the flat race against the clock, Lemmen secured the eighteenth fastest time. This result moves the Dutchman up to sixteenth place in the general classification. Thomas Gloag also managed to limit his losses. The Team Visma | Lease a Bike duo now heads into the first tough stage in a strong position.

“Both Bart and Thomas delivered a solid time trial,” said Mørkøv. “Due to favorable wind conditions, we decided to have them start early, which ultimately paid off. It was a good result with the general classification in mind. Tomorrow, the stage will finish atop Jebel Jais – a nineteen-kilometer climb. We will do everything we can to keep Bart and Thomas in a strong position. We’re looking forward to it.”