Nordhagen has already made a big impression in recent days and also showed his potential in the penultimate stage. The youngster was part of the breakaway and took the maximum points on the categorised climbs. He even took a virtual lead in the general classification, but everything came together again with ten kilometres to go. In the bunch sprint, Jonathan Milan proved to be the fastest.

"It was a great day", Nordhagen said. "The goal was to be in the breakaway and have a shot at the mountain jersey. Since I had already collected a few points yesterday, it seemed a good idea to go in the break. I was happy to be in it, thanks also to the help of my teammates. I tried to take the maximum score on every climb to maximise the gap with my rival. That worked out well."

For Nordhagen, who is making his World Tour debut, it was special to step onto the podium afterwards. "To be on the podium in such a big race gives a very special feeling. I knew I was in good shape, but I didn't quite expect this." With one stage to go, the difference with Yemane is five points. "I'm going to do everything I can to take home the jersey."

Sports director Robert Wagner also spoke of a successful day. "I am super proud of the guys. We went all out and to turn out like this, is fantastic. Tomorrow will certainly not be an easy day, but we will do everything we can to maintain the lead in the mountain classification."